What should you know about central lumpectomy?

Because the tumour lies close to or beneath the nipple and areola, surgery may also remove part or all of that area to obtain a clear rim of tissue. The surgeon plans the incision and breast reshaping around tumour position, breast size and the expected tissue removal.

A central tumour can involve the ducts directly behind the nipple. Imaging and biopsy help define its extent, while nipple changes may require separate assessment. Paget disease of the breast often affects the nipple and can occur with an underlying breast cancer, but eczema and other benign conditions can also change nipple skin.

Removing central tissue can leave a visible hollow or alter breast shape. Oncoplastic techniques rearrange nearby tissue to reduce that defect, and nipple reconstruction may be discussed later. The final pathology report shows tumour features, margin status and whether further surgery should be considered.

Before consenting, ask whether the nipple-areola complex can remain, where scars are likely to sit and how the breasts may differ afterward. Confirm whether lymph nodes will be assessed and whether breast-conserving surgery is expected to be followed by radiotherapy.

After the operation, wear the recommended support garment, care for the dressing as instructed and perform shoulder exercises approved by the team. Avoid lifting beyond the supplied limits until reviewed. Pathology, rather than the wound appearance, determines whether margins are clear and whether another operation is advised.

Report fever, spreading redness, worsening warmth, pus, increasing pain, sudden breast swelling or bleeding that soaks the dressing. Prompt assessment is also needed if the wound opens, skin becomes dark or pale, or arm swelling rapidly increases.

Emergency help is appropriate for severe breathlessness, chest pain, collapse or coughing blood. For less urgent changes in shape, sensation or nipple appearance, record the concern and arrange review rather than altering dressings or applying unapproved creams.

Ask what tissue must be removed to achieve an adequate margin, what cosmetic change is anticipated, and whether oncoplastic reshaping is possible. Discuss how lumpectomy plus radiotherapy compares with mastectomy for your tumour and preferences, including the chance that margin findings could lead to more surgery.