Breast cancer is now the most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide. It can affect women and men. Age, inherited genetic changes, hormonal imbalances, and certain breast diseases are among the risk factors that contribute to the development of breast cancer.

To confirm the diagnosis of breast cancer, doctors carry out a series of tests such as a physical examination, mammography, biopsy, MRI, and breast ultrasound. After the diagnosis is established, the clinician will suggest the most suitable treatment to limit the spread of cancer. In addition to chemotherapy and radiation, surgery is one of the most commonly used treatments for breast cancer.

Types of Breast Cancer Surgery

According to Cancer.org, two primary surgical options are used to remove breast cancer:

• Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy): a procedure that removes only the cancer-bearing portion of the breast. The aim is to take out the tumor with a rim of normal tissue. How much tissue is removed depends on tumor size, location, and other considerations.
• Mastectomy: an operation to remove the breast in order to eradicate cancer cells. Depending on the cancer and patient risk factors, it may involve one or both breasts.

People with early-stage breast cancer can often choose between a lumpectomy and a mastectomy. The benefit of a lumpectomy is that the breast is preserved. This surgery is usually followed by radiation therapy to lower the chance of the cancer returning. A mastectomy removes the entire breast; in some situations, no additional treatment such as radiation is required.

Can Cancer Relapse if a Breast is Removed?

Removing the breast aims to clear cancer cells from the breast. Even so, patients who undergo breast removal still have a possibility of developing breast cancer again.

The Cleveland Clinic notes that cancer cells can be difficult to eliminate completely. Treatment may destroy most cells, but some can remain undetected. These cells may stay dormant for a time without causing symptoms. Eventually, they can become active and multiply, leading to a recurrence.

Breast cancer can come back in several ways:

• Local: cancer reappears in the breast where it first developed
• Regional: cancer returns in nearby areas, such as lymph nodes in the armpit or around the neck
• Distant: cancer has spread to organs like the lungs, bones, or other body sites. This is metastatic disease and is often called stage 4 breast cancer.

Because of this risk, people who have had breast removal are encouraged to continue routine breast checks (including mammograms) to spot any spread or return of cancer cells. Some patients are also advised to combine other therapies, such as radiation and chemotherapy, to reduce the likelihood of future recurrence.

Given the high burden of breast cancer, everyone and especially women should stay alert to breast cancer risks. The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chance of recovery. Learn the signs of breast cancer and seek early screening to help prevent cancer from advancing.

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