At Jus’Onco Clinic, we understand that a breast cancer diagnosis brings emotional challenges and complex medical decisions, especially when it comes to surgery. One of the most critical and personal choices you’ll make in your cancer journey is deciding which type of breast cancer surgery is right for you.
This blog answers the most common questions we hear from patients and their families, helping you understand your options and feel more confident about the decisions ahead. Remember, you are not alone; our team of experienced oncologists and breast cancer surgeons is here to guide you every step of the way.
Q1: What are the main types of breast cancer surgeries?
There are two primary surgical options:
1. Breast-Conserving Surgery (BCS) — also known as lumpectomy
- Removes only the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue.
- Preserves most of the natural breast.
- Typically followed by radiation therapy to destroy microscopic cancer cells.
2. Mastectomy
- Removes the entire breast (sometimes both breasts).
- May or may not require radiation after surgery.
- Can be followed by breast reconstruction (either immediately or at a later date).
Both surgeries can be highly effective—it’s not always about which is “better,” but which is right for your unique case.
Q2: How does my cancer stage affect the surgery decision?
The stage of breast cancer is a key factor in determining the surgical approach.
- Early-stage breast cancer (Stage 0 or I): You may be a good candidate for lumpectomy, especially if the tumor is small and well-defined.
- Stage II and III: Depending on the tumor size and spread, your doctor may recommend mastectomy or lumpectomy followed by chemotherapy/radiation.
- Stage IV (metastatic): Surgery may be used to relieve symptoms but not always as a primary treatment.
Your oncologist will help assess the stage based on imaging, biopsy results, and other tests conducted at Jus’Onco Clinic.
Not sure which surgery is right for you?
Let us guide you through your options contact Jus’Onco Clinic for personalized advice
Q3: Does breast size or shape influence the choice?
Yes, breast size relative to tumor size can play a role.
- A small tumor in a larger breast may be removed successfully through lumpectomy with good cosmetic outcomes.
- A larger tumor in a smaller breast might leave a noticeable deformity after lumpectomy, making mastectomy a better option.
Our team offers onco-plastic surgery at Jus’Onco, combining cancer removal with cosmetic reconstruction to maintain breast appearance.
Q4: What if I have a genetic mutation like BRCA?
If you’ve tested positive for a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, your risk of developing breast cancer (or recurrence) is higher.
Many women in this category choose to undergo a bilateral mastectomy (removal of both breasts) as a preventive or curative measure. This surgery significantly lowers future risk and can be followed by reconstruction.
We recommend thorough genetic counseling before making this decision.
Q5: What role does radiation play in choosing surgery?
If you choose lumpectomy, radiation therapy is almost always required after surgery to destroy the microscopic cancer cells so we can minimize recurrence risk.
If you opt for mastectomy, radiation may or may not be needed—depending on lymph node involvement, tumor size, and margins.
At Jus’Onco Clinic, our medical team works collaboratively across surgical, radiation, and medical oncology departments to build a personalized treatment plan that balances effectiveness with your preferences.
Q6: Is mastectomy more effective than lumpectomy?
Research shows that lumpectomy followed by radiation is just as effective as mastectomy for many women with early-stage breast cancer. Both options offer similar long-term survival rates.
However, mastectomy may be preferred if:
- The tumor is large or located in multiple areas.
- You’ve previously had radiation.
- You have strong family history or genetic predisposition
- You personally feel more comfortable removing the entire breast.
Ultimately, the best surgery is the one tailored to your medical condition and your emotional comfort.
Q7: Can I have breast reconstruction after surgery?
Yes. At Jus’Onco Clinic, breast reconstruction is an option after mastectomy and even in some cases after large lumpectomies.
Reconstruction can be:
- Implant-based
- Flap-based (using tissue from your own body)
- Immediate (done during the same surgery)
- Delayed (done after completing chemotherapy or radiation)
We work with expert plastic surgeons to ensure aesthetic outcomes that support both your physical and emotional recovery.
Q8: What questions should I ask my surgeon before deciding?
Bring these key questions to your consultation:
- What are my surgical options?
- What are the benefits and risks of each?
- Will I need radiation or chemotherapy after surgery?
- What are the cosmetic outcomes?
- Can I talk to other patients who’ve had similar surgeries?
- What does recovery look like?
Our specialists take time to answer these and more—because informed patients heal better.
Not sure which surgery is right for you?
Let us guide you through your options contact Jus’Onco Clinic for personalized advice
Q9: How does Jus’Onco Clinic support me in this decision?
We know this is not just a medical decision—it’s deeply personal.
Here’s how we support you:
- Multidisciplinary consultation — Surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists review your case together.
- Detailed counseling sessions — Understand every aspect of your options.
- Second opinions welcome — We encourage clarity and confidence before you choose.
- Emotional support — In-house counselors and survivor groups are available.
- Reconstruction guidance — Plastic surgeons explain all your aesthetic options.
Breast-Conserving Surgery vs. Mastectomy: Which One Should You Choose?
If you’ve been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer (Stage 1 or 2A), your doctor may offer you two surgical options: Breast-Conserving Surgery (BCS) or mastectomy. Both are effective, and studies show that patients who have BCS followed by radiation therapy have similar survival rates to those who choose mastectomy.
The decision between BCS and mastectomy is deeply personal and depends on your medical situation, preferences, lifestyle, and emotional comfort. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of both procedures to help guide your decision.
What Is Breast-Conserving Surgery (BCS)?
Also known as a lumpectomy, BCS involves removing only the tumor and a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue, preserving most of the breast.
Advantages of BCS:
- Preserves the breast: The shape, feel, and sensation of the breast, nipple, and areola are often retained.
- Shorter recovery time: Most patients return to regular activities within two weeks.
- Fewer complications: The procedure is shorter and less invasive than a mastectomy.
- Body image: For many women, keeping their natural breast improves body image and self-confidence.
Disadvantages of BCS:
- Requires radiation therapy: Typically, you’ll need radiation five days a week for 3–4 weeks after surgery.
- Longer overall treatment: Radiation extends the treatment duration and may come with side effects like fatigue or skin irritation.
- Slightly higher recurrence risk: Cancer may return in the remaining breast tissue, though this risk is still low with radiation therapy.
What Is a Mastectomy?
Mastectomy involves removing the entire breast, including the nipple. Some women choose this option for peace of mind or due to specific medical recommendations.
Advantages of a Mastectomy:
- Lower risk of local recurrence: Because more tissue is removed, there’s less chance of cancer returning in that area.
- May avoid radiation: In certain cases, radiation isn’t needed, reducing the risk of radiation-related side effects.
- Peace of mind: Some patients feel more reassured removing the entire breast.
Disadvantages of a Mastectomy:
- More invasive: Surgery is longer, recovery takes 3–4 weeks, and hospital stays may be up to 2 days.
- Physical changes: The chest will be flat, and sensation in the area is often reduced.
- Reconstruction is complex: If you choose reconstruction, it can prolong recovery and carry risks of additional complications.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between lumpectomy and mastectomy is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It involves your cancer stage, medical history, family background, lifestyle, emotional comfort, and plans. At Jus’Onco Clinic, we walk beside you—not just as doctors, but as human beings who care.
Every surgery we do is personalized, evidence-based, and focused on your long-term well-being.