Wide Excision Breast-Conserving Surgery

In this surgery, the breast cancer and a rim of normal surrounding breast tissue are removed. The breast will remain a scar and some changes in shape and size of the breast are expected. Patients can go home on the same day or the next day.

After recovering from breast-conserving surgery, radiation therapy to the breast (Mon to Fri) for 3 to 6 weeks is recommended. It helps to reduce the risk of recurrence.

A second operation is needed if cancer cells are noted at the edge in the histological (microscopic) assessment of the removed portion. This occurs in 10 to 15 percent of patients.