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Breast-Conserving Surgery (Lumpectomy) for Breast Cancer

Surgery Overview

Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) removes the cancer and just enough tissue to get all the cancer. The goal is to keep the breast looking as normal as possible after the surgery while reducing the chances of the cancer coming back.




What To Expect


Most people go home the day of the surgery. Your doctor or nurse will give you instructions on pain control and caring for your incision. In most cases, you can take a shower on the day after surgery. If you like, you can wear a bra if it is comfortable. Some doctors recommend wearing a bra day and night for a few days for support.


If you are going to have radiation therapy, it won't start until your incision heals. This usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Why It Is Done

Breast-conserving surgery is done in early-stage breast cancer to remove the cancer and just enough tissue to make sure that all the cancer is removed.

Learn more

How Well It Works



Complications of breast-conserving surgery are unusual. But they may include infection, bleeding, poor wound healing, or a reaction to the anesthesia used in surgery. Blood or clear fluid may also collect in the wound and need to be drained. You may have breast pain and feelings of pulling, pinching, tingling, or numbness.






Current as of: December 17, 2020

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Laura S. Dominici MD - General Surgery, Breast Surgical Oncology

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