Common operations

Sectoral excision of the breast

(also known as partial mastectomy or lumpectomy)
Only part of the mammary gland is removed – the specific sector of the breast where the suspicious lump or tumour is located. The aim is to preserve as much of the healthy breast tissue as possible, while completely removing the affected area.

Breast benign breast surgery

This surgery is performed when a benign mass, such as a fibroadenoma, cyst or lipoma, is found in the breast, which causes discomfort, increases in size or causes concern to the patient. Although the mass is not malignant, it is often recommended to remove it in order to obtain a reliable histological confirmation and to prevent any potential future development.

The surgery is usually small, targeted and performed with minimal impact on the rest of the breast tissue.

Unlike sectoral excision, here the entire breast sector is not removed, but only the mass itself with the minimum possible amount of healthy tissue. However, if the mass is deep or indistinct, the surgeon may use a similar approach to sectoral excision.

Surgery to reduce mammary gland tissue

Surgery performed more often on women with large breast volumes that cause back pain, pain in the shoulders, restrict movement or otherwise limit quality of life. Breast reduction improves quality of life and breast shape.

In men, conditions such as:

• Gynaecomastia is a benign enlargement of the breast glands, often treated surgically by removing the glandular tissue, significantly reducing the volume of the breast.

Breast reconstruction

They are performed after removal of breast tissue (mastectomy) to restore the appearance of the breast. Reconstruction can be done at the same time as the tumour surgery or later. The patient’s own tissue or implant materials are used.

Axillary lymph node surgery

These operations involve the examination or removal of axillary lymph nodes to determine the spread of the tumour and plan future treatment.
Ongoing:

• Sentinel lymph node biopsy – the first lymph node where the tumour is likely to spread is removed
• Complete lymph node dissection – multiple axillary lymph nodes removed if necessary

Post-operative care

The recovery process

• Pain and swelling in the first days
• Wound dressings and drain monitoring
• Restricted movement on the operated side
• Physiotherapy as prescribed by your doctor

Attention to lymphatic drainage

Swelling of the arm after lymph node removal – prophylaxis or treatment is needed.

Psychological support

Breast surgery can be emotionally challenging – the involvement of a psychologist is desirable for some patients.

Control and further treatment

• Visits to a surgeon or oncologist
• Explanation of biopsy results
• Treatment plan if radiation or chemotherapy is required