Cancer Surgery

Surgical Oncology

It can be scary and overwhelming to have a diagnosis of cancer. At Wasatch surgical we want to help you navigate your cancer treatment.  We will work with your medical oncologist (cancer doctors) to help you get a personalized surgical plan to treat your cancer.

Breast cancer surgery

Partial mastectomy (also called ‘lumpectomy’ or breast-conserving surgery’)

A small portion of the breast tissue is removed around the breast tumor. Generally, the breast will look similar after the surgery. Typically, the nipple is left in place. You will have a small scar, and the breast may be slightly smaller on this side after surgery.

Source: https://www.facs.org/for-patients/the-day-of-your-surgery/breast-cancer-surgery/understanding-your-operation/lumpectomy

Mastectomy

This involves removal of the entire breast. This is done if the tumor is large and the breast cannot be left in place.  You may choose to leave your chest flat. You can also choose to have reconstruction of the breast with a plastic surgeon. Dr. Goodwin will work with your plastic surgeon to come up with a plan or refer you to a plastic surgeon if needed.

Source: https://www.mybcteam.com/resources/mastectomy-and-breast-cancer

Lymph node biopsy (also called sentinel lymph node biopsy)

Lymph node are small pieces of tissue that are about the size of a jellybean, they are part of the immune system. If breast cancer spreads, it usually spreads to the lymph nodes in the axilla (armpit) first.  You may need a few lymph node from you armpit removed at the time of the breast surgery. This will help determine the extent or “stage” of your breast cancer.

Radiation for breast cancer: after your surgery you may need radiation therapy to prevent cancer recurrence in that area. This can be determined with the help of a Radiation Oncologist.

Additional information about breast cancer

Video: What is breast cancer?