Which specialist performs lumpectomy?

A lumpectomy removes the known breast tumour and a small amount of surrounding tissue while preserving much of the breast. The surgical oncologist reviews imaging, biopsy information, tumour position and your general health before discussing whether this operation fits your treatment plan.

A radiologist may interpret breast scans, a pathologist examines the removed tissue, and a medical or radiation oncologist may advise about treatment after surgery. A plastic surgeon can be involved when reconstruction or reshaping needs special planning.

At the consultation, bring your scan and biopsy reports if you have them, along with a list of medicines and previous operations. Ask where the incision may be placed, whether lymph nodes may also be assessed, what type of anaesthesia is planned, and how the tissue will be checked after removal.

Your surgeon should explain wound care, movement limits and the follow-up schedule. Tell the team about blood-thinning medicines, allergies, pregnancy possibility or previous problems with anaesthesia before the operation.

After surgery, contact the treating team promptly for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, fever, worsening pain or a wound that opens. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting or heavy bleeding.

Ask which surgeon will lead the procedure, whether a breast-conserving operation is suitable for your tumour, how margins and lymph nodes will be assessed, and when pathology results are expected.