It is a surgical procedure to remove the breast cancer and some normal tissue around it, but not the breast itself. Some lymph nodes under the arm may be removed for biopsy. Part of the chest wall lining may also be removed if the cancer is near it. It is also called breast-sparing surgery.

Breast-conserving surgery (BCS) is a good option for many women with early-stage cancers. Number of conditions must be fulfilled to treat a breast cancer with BCS:

Before BCS, Dr. Monika might order routine blood tests, an ECG and Chest x-ray to be done before 1 week of the surgery. The patient may bathe or shower with soap the night before or the morning of surgery. The patient will not be allowed to eat or drink anything 8-10 hours prior to surgery. She might also ask to stop few medications like diuretics or diabetes medications, anticoagulants, vitamins or herbal remedies, anti-inflammatory medicines, etc. Dr. Monika will also counsel the patient regarding the expected change in shape of the breast after the surgery and options regarding reconstructive surgery.

Breast conservation surgery is done under general anesthesia.

Most women may have breast pain and feelings of pulling, pinching, tingling, or numbness after surgery. This surgery requires minimal hospitalization. Most women should be fairly functional after going home and can often return to their regular activities within 2 weeks. Some women might require help at home depending on how extensive their surgery was. Dr. Monika will give written instructions about care after surgery, which will include: