Treatment Options
A diagnosis of breast cancer is a frightening prospect that affects about 240,000 American women each year.
Mastectomy
A mastectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or both breasts in order to treat breast cancer. There are several types of mastectomy that can be performed, depending on the extent of the cancer and the patient's preferences. Some of most common mastectomies are:
A total or simple mastectomy [Link to Total Mastectomy] involves removing all of the breast tissue, including the nipple and areola. It may be unilateral [Link to Unilateral Mastectomy] (removal of one breast) or bilateral [Link to Bilateral Mastectomy] (removal of both breasts).
[Link to Modified Radical Mastectomy] A modified radical mastectomy removes the entire breast as well as some lymph nodes under the arm.
Also known as a bilateral mastectomy, [Link to Bilateral Mastectomy] this involves removing both breasts, which may be done if there is cancer present in one breast and a high risk of cancer recurring in the other breast.
While undergoing a mastectomy can be emotionally challenging, it can also offer significant benefits in terms of reducing the risk of recurrence and improving survival rates. Some women may choose to undergo a mastectomy if they are at significant risk of developing breast cancer due to the BRCA gene mutation [Link to BRCA Gene] or other risk factors.
While a mastectomy may seem like a drastic treatment option, it is an effective way to combat breast cancer and improve outcomes for patients. By weighing all available options and making informed decisions, women can take control of their health and well-being during this challenging journey.
Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction surgery [Link to Breast Reconstruction] is an option for women after their mastectomy to restore their appearance and sense of femininity. There are a number of modern choices for breast reconstruction, and it's important for women facing a mastectomy to have open and honest discussions with their healthcare team about their options, expectations, and concerns.
Chemotherapy & Radiation
Chemotherapy and radiation are two common treatments for breast cancer that are often used in combination with surgery. These treatments are designed to kill cancer cells, shrink tumors, and prevent the spread of cancer to other parts of the body.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy treatment involves the use of powerful drugs to target and destroy rapidly dividing cancer cells. This treatment is usually given in cycles, with rest periods in between to allow the body to recover from the side effects. Chemotherapy can be administered orally or intravenously, depending on the specific drugs being used.
Some common side effects of chemotherapy include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, and increased risk of infection. However, these side effects can often be improved with medications and supportive care from healthcare providers.
Radiation
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays or particles to target and kill cancer cells. This treatment is typically given after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells in the breast or surrounding tissues. Radiation therapy is usually delivered externally using a machine that directs beams of radiation at specific areas of the body.
Side effects of radiation therapy may include skin irritation or changes (such as redness or peeling), fatigue, and temporary swelling in the treated area. Most side effects are temporary and will improve once treatment is completed.
It's important for patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation for breast cancer to work closely with their doctors to manage side effects and ensure they are receiving appropriate care throughout their treatment.
Drug Therapy
In addition to chemotherapy, there are other types of drugs that can be used in the management of breast cancer, each with its own benefits and potential side effects. Some common drug therapies include:
The use of hormones is a type of drug therapy for breast cancer. Hormone therapy works by blocking the effects of hormones like estrogen that can fuel the growth of certain types of breast cancer. This treatment is often used in hormone receptor-positive breast cancers and can prevent recurrence or slow the progression of the disease. Some common side effects of hormone therapy include menopausal symptoms, mood changes, and an increased risk of osteoporosis.
Another important form of drug therapy for breast cancer is known as targeted therapy. These treatments work by targeting specific molecules or pathways involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Targeted therapies can be used alone or in combination with other treatments to improve outcomes for patients with certain types of breast cancer. Women undergoing targeted therapy for breast cancer often suffer from skin reactions, fatigue, increased risk of infection, and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
This is a newer form of drug therapy that harnesses the power of the immune system to fight cancer. This treatment works by boosting the body's natural defenses against cancer cells and has shown promising results in some patients with advanced forms of breast cancer. Common side effects of immunotherapy are fatigue, flu-like symptoms, and gastrointestinal problems. It is rare, but some individuals may have an autoimmune reaction to immunotherapy as a treatment for breast cancer resulting in more serious conditions affecting the organs.
Lumpectomy
A lumpectomy, also known as breast-conserving surgery or partial mastectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove a tumor or abnormal tissue from the breast while preserving as much of the healthy breast tissue as possible. It's commonly used to treat early-stage breast cancer or to remove suspicious lumps for further examination.
During a lumpectomy, the surgeon removes the tumor along with a surrounding margin of normal tissue to ensure that all cancerous cells are removed. This procedure is designed to preserve the appearance and function of the breast while effectively treating the cancer.
Most people who get a lumpectomy to treat cancer also get radiation therapy afterward. Radiation reduces the likelihood that the cancer will return. If radiation poses additional risk for you, then a lumpectomy may not be the best option for you, regardless of your tumor size.
By following medical recommendations and staying proactive about communicating any concerns or symptoms you are having, you can optimize your chances for successful outcomes with a range of treatments for breast cancer.
Speak directly to one of our world-class surgeons by booking a video call [Link to Contact] to discuss your treatment options for breast cancer.