Mastectomy vs. Lumpectomy

Under certain situations after a breast cancer diagnosis, you have the opportunity to choose between total removal of a breast (mastectomy) or breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) followed by radiation. Lumpectomy followed by radiation may be as effective as mastectomy for those with early stage breast cancer.

There are many things to consider before making your decision.  

Use these websites to help guide you. You will come to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each choice, as well as what you can expect pre- and post-surgery..

Surgery for breast cancer, American Cancer Society

Mastectomy vs. Lumpectomy, Breastcancer.org

Mastectomy vs. Lumpectomy: An Interview with Susan Love, M.D.

Lumpectomy vs. Mastectomy, What's Right For You? - Dr. Harness, BreastCancerAnswers.com

About Breast Cancer, National Breast Cancer Foundation

Mastectomy, National Breast Cancer Foundation

Lumpectomy, National Breast Cancer Foundation

This website helps you shape questions to ask your cancer doctors before making a final decision.

Questions to Ask Your Breast Cancer Doctors, WebMD

 For a thorough review of breast cancer including treatment options, use these websites:

Breast Cancer Overview, American Cancer Society

National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines for Patients