What is the difference between a mastectomy and a lumpectomy?

What is the difference between a mastectomy and a lumpectomy?

• A. A lumpectomy removes the entire breast, while a mastectomy removes only the tumor
• B. A mastectomy involves the removal of the entire breast, while a lumpectomy removes only the tumor and some surrounding tissue
• C. A lumpectomy is performed only on men, while a mastectomy is for women
• D. Both procedures remove the entire breast

Answer: (B)

The correct answer highlights the key distinction between a mastectomy and a lumpectomy based on the extent of tissue removal during each surgical procedure. A mastectomy is a surgical technique that entails the complete removal of one or both breasts, typically due to breast cancer or other significant breast conditions. This approach may be necessary when there is a high risk of recurrence or when tumors are large, multifocal, or when a patient opts for this option based on personal reasons. Conversely, a lumpectomy is a breast-conserving surgery that aims to excise only the tumor along with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue. This procedure is designed to remove cancerous cells while preserving as much of the breast as possible, allowing for better cosmetic outcomes and maintaining the breast's shape. Understanding the difference between these two surgical interventions is crucial for informed decision-making regarding treatment options for breast cancer. Each approach has implications not only for physical health and recovery but also for emotional wellness and body image post-surgery.

The correct answer highlights the key distinction between a mastectomy and a lumpectomy based on the extent of tissue removal during each surgical procedure.

A mastectomy is a surgical technique that entails the complete removal of one or both breasts, typically due to breast cancer or other significant breast conditions. This approach may be necessary when there is a high risk of recurrence or when tumors are large, multifocal, or when a patient opts for this option based on personal reasons.

Conversely, a lumpectomy is a breast-conserving surgery that aims to excise only the tumor along with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue. This procedure is designed to remove cancerous cells while preserving as much of the breast as possible, allowing for better cosmetic outcomes and maintaining the breast's shape.

Understanding the difference between these two surgical interventions is crucial for informed decision-making regarding treatment options for breast cancer. Each approach has implications not only for physical health and recovery but also for emotional wellness and body image post-surgery.