Breast Surgery

If you’re facing breast surgery, understanding the surgical options, potential benefits and risks, and what you can expect during your recovery can make the process feel more manageable. Dr. Waterman will help you determine which approach is most appropriate based on your diagnosis, overall health, and treatment goals. 

What types of breast surgery are available? 

Dr. Waterman offers lumpectomies and mastectomies including Level 1 and Level 2 oncoplastic procedures as well as sentinel lymph node biopsy, axillary lymph node dissections, and port placements.

Lumpectomy

A lumpectomy, also called breast-conserving surgery, removes cancerous tumors along with a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue while preserving most of the breast. Radiation therapy typically follows. Lumpectomy is often undertaken with an oncoplastic approach where the remaining breast tissue and surrounding tissue is rearranged to fill the space where the tumor was removed to preserve or restore the natural shape of the breast.

Mastectomy

A mastectomy removes all breast tissue. Depending on the diagnosis and your circumstances, options may include:

• A total mastectomy
• Skin-sparing mastectomy
• Nipple-sparing mastectomy

Oncoplastic Breast Surgery

Oncoplastic breast surgery combines the oncologic (cancer) resection with ipsilateral (same side) reconstruction using volume displacement or volume replacement techniques (your own tissues) and possible contralateral (other side) symmetry surgery when appropriate.

Mastectomy can also be paired with immediate and delayed breast reconstruction through partnerships with local plastic surgeons.

Dr. Waterman may also recommend lymph node surgery, such as sentinel lymph node biopsy, to determine whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.

What are the risks and benefits of breast surgery?

As with any operation, breast surgery carries risks. These may include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Pain
• Scarring
• Changes in breast shape or sensation
• Fluid accumulation (seroma)
• Reactions to anesthesia

The benefits of breast surgery include:

• Removing cancer
• Reducing the risk of recurrence in the breast
• Helping guide additional treatment

Dr. Waterman can discuss the specific risks and expected benefits of your recommended procedure.

How should I prepare for breast surgery?

Before surgery, Dr. Waterman will review your medical history, medications, imaging, and test results and explain what to expect. Follow pre-surgery instructions and let her know what medications and supplements you take so she can recommend adjustments if necessary.

Arrange transportation home, comfortable clothing, and help with daily activities during the first few days. A little preparation and self-compassion can go a long way.

What can I expect after breast surgery?

Recovery times vary, but many patients go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.

During the first week, expect some soreness, swelling, bruising, and fatigue. Prescription or over-the-counter pain medication may help manage discomfort. You’ll go home with instructions about wound care, showering, activity, and when you can safely return to your routine.

Swelling and discomfort generally improve over several weeks. You may be able to gradually resume your activities within a few weeks, avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for a while longer. Dr. Waterman will monitor your healing and review pathology results to determine whether you need additional treatment.

Schedule a breast surgery consultation by calling the Green Mountain Breast Care Center office or booking a time online today.