Breast Cancer Surgery

Surgery is often the most effective way for treating the breast cancer.

At the Magee-Womens Breast Cancer Program in Pittsburgh, Pa., our dedicated breast surgeons use highly specialized technologies and minimally invasive procedures to remove cancerous (malignant) and noncancerous (benign) tumors of the breast.

Surgical Options for Breast Cancer

• Mastectomy: Surgery to remove part of the breast with a cancerous tumor (lumpectomy), breast tissue, or the entire breast. In some cases, lymph nodes are also removed. In rare cases, some of the chest muscles are removed as well.
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove the main (sentinel) lymph nodes in the underarm (axilla) to test for cancer.
• Axillary lymph node dissection: Surgery to remove all or a group of lymph nodes in the underarm (axilla), if your sentinel lymph node biopsy is positive for cancer.

Our breast surgery experts:

• Will guide you to the appropriate surgical procedure for your type of breast cancer.
• Work closely with our plastic and reconstructive breast surgeons to provide the best treatment and cosmetic results.
• Encourage you to play an active role in your breast cancer treatment plan.