Many people with early-stage breast cancer can choose between breast-conserving surgery, called a lumpectomy, or total removal of the breast, a mastectomy. They may also require radiation therapy.
In most cases, undergoing a lumpectomy and radiation therapy gives a person a similar chance of long-term survival as a mastectomy.
The choice between the two procedures involves many personal and medical factors, including the person’s previous medical history and their concerns regarding recurrence and cosmetic issues. (Read more…)