Which specialist performs breast lump excision?

Breast lump excision, also called excision biopsy or lump removal, is an operation to remove a lump and a small amount of surrounding tissue when appropriate. A breast surgeon assesses the finding, discusses whether removal is suitable, and plans the incision. The removed tissue is examined to clarify what it is. The operation may be arranged after examination and imaging, and the recommended approach depends on the lump's size, position, and clinical features.

Ask the breast surgery team what the operation is intended to establish or treat, what anaesthetic is planned, and whether a marker or other localisation is needed. Provide a full list of medicines and supplements, mention allergies and pregnancy, and follow instructions about fasting and bathing. Plan transport home if the clinic advises that you should not drive after anaesthesia. See [Breast Lump Excision](/treatments/breast-care/breast-lump-excision/) for more detail.

Contact the surgical team if the wound opens, bleeding continues, swelling increases, pain becomes difficult to control, or the skin becomes increasingly red or hot. Fever or cloudy drainage also needs medical advice. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, severe shortness of breath, or collapse. A new or changing lump, skin dimpling, nipple inversion, or bloody discharge should be assessed rather than self-diagnosed.

Why is excision recommended for my lump? Will the surgeon remove only the lump or nearby tissue too? What type of anaesthetic will I receive? How will the incision be closed? When will the tissue result be available, and who will explain it?