Breast Surgery
About Breast Surgery
Breast surgery can be performed for a variety of conditions both benign and malignant.
A new diagnosis of a breast lump can be very distressing. All breast lumps should be investigated thoroughly with a combination of physical exam, imaging (Usually mammogram and ultrasound) as well as often a biopsy. In the unfortunate diagnosis of a breast cancer, the management is guided by the type of cancer, if there is spread, and the wishes of the patient.
Surgery plays an important role in the management of breast cancer with options of breast conserving surgery (lumpectomy) as well as occasionally mastectomy (removing the breast).
Also staging of the cancer by examining the local lymph nodes under the arm (Sentinel lymph node biopsy). Often other treatments are also recommended such as radiotherapy, hormonal therapy or chemotherapy. All of these options are discussed at the time of a diagnosis
Further information about Breast Surgery
How common is Breast cancer?
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women with approximately 1 in 8 women.
In 2018 there were 18742 new cases of breast cancer with 18538 in women and 205 in men. Overall, it is the second most common cancer in Australia (behind prostate). Fortunately, the outcomes overall are quite good with the 5-year survival of breast cancer being 92%. However, as it is so common it is still the 5th most common cause of cancer death in Australia.
What is involved in breast cancer surgery?
Most commonly breast cancers can be excised as just the lump taken out (Breast conserving surgery). Occasionally due to patient preference, or due to the tumour itself the whole breast is taken off (Mastectomy). Along with dealing with the primary cancer the lymph nodes under the armpit are examined to check for spread of cancer cells.
A procedure called sentinel lymph node biopsy is performed which involves injection of mildly radioactive dye into the breast the morning of, or day before surgery. Combined with this a blue dye is injected at the time of surgery to find the lymph node or nodes that are the 1st ones to drain cells from the breast. By examining these with a pathologist we can work out if there is spread and this will guide recommendations for further treatment.
Do you do reconstructive breast surgery?
No. Dr Matthew Shears performs breast surgery for cancer and benign breast disease but does not undertake reconstructive or cosmetic breast surgery. If you are in need of reconstruction associated with breast cancer then Dr Shears can refer you to a service who does this (usually in Melbourne).