Breast surgery covers a wide range, from benign breast conditions to breast cancer. In breast cancer treatment, breast-conserving surgery and sentinel lymph node biopsy are now the leading approaches; in suitable patients they avoid removal of the whole breast and unnecessary clearance of the axillary lymph nodes.
- Breast cancer surgery
- Breast-conserving surgery
- Oncoplastic breast surgery
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy
- Mastectomy
- Breast cyst and fibroadenoma
- Nipple discharge
- Breast biopsy (needle, tru-cut, excisional)
- Breast abscess (mastitis)
- Gynaecomastia
Breast conditions range from benign cysts and fibroadenomas to breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women; when diagnosed early, treatment success is very high.
Benign Breast Conditions
- Breast cyst: Fluid-filled sacs, usually kept under observation
- Fibroadenoma: A benign lump common in young women; removed if it grows or raises suspicion
- Fibrocystic changes: Pain and irregularity linked to the menstrual cycle
- Nipple discharge: One-sided, bloody or spontaneous discharge should be investigated
- Breast abscess (mastitis): Seen particularly during breastfeeding; drainage may be needed
- Gynaecomastia: Enlargement of breast tissue in men
The Diagnostic Pathway
Breast examination, ultrasound and, according to age, mammography are the basic assessment tools. Where findings are suspicious, biopsy is performed:
- Fine needle aspiration biopsy
- Tru-cut (core needle) biopsy: the most commonly used method for tissue diagnosis
- Excisional biopsy: removal of the whole lump for examination
- Wire localisation: marking and removing lesions that cannot be felt, under imaging guidance
Breast Cancer Surgery
Breast-conserving surgery
The tumour and a margin of healthy tissue are removed while most of the breast is preserved. In suitable patients, combined with radiotherapy, it gives survival outcomes equivalent to removal of the whole breast.
Mastectomy
Where the tumour is extensive or multifocal, or breast-conserving surgery is unsuitable, the whole breast tissue is removed. In suitable cases, skin- and nipple-sparing techniques with immediate reconstruction may be considered.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy
The first lymph node draining the tumour is marked, removed and examined during surgery. If it is clear, the remaining axillary lymph nodes are not removed. This approach is decisive in preventing long-term problems such as arm swelling (lymphoedema).
Oncoplastic surgery
Surgical techniques that preserve oncological safety while attending to the shape and symmetry of the breast.
When to Seek Assessment
- A newly noticed firm lump in the breast
- Retraction or change in shape of the nipple
- One-sided, bloody or spontaneous nipple discharge
- Orange-peel appearance, redness or an ulcer on the skin
- A palpable swelling in the armpit
An Oncological Foundation in Breast Cancer Surgery
Op. Dr. Ersan Semerci completed his residency at Ankara Oncology Hospital; breast cancer surgery has been among his areas of work since that period. Breast disease surgery is listed as a separate specialty area on his Medical Park doctor profile.
- Publication: Yildirim E, Semerci E, Berberoglu U. "The analysis of prognostic factors in stage III-B non-inflammatory breast cancer." European Journal of Surgical Oncology, 2000;26(1):34-8 (PMID: 10718177)
- Publication: Yildirim E, Semerci E, Berberoglu U. "Can local excision be sufficient in the treatment of intraductal breast cancer?" Turkish Journal of Surgery, 2000;16(6):351-58
- Breast-conserving surgery, sentinel lymph node biopsy and oncoplastic breast surgery are among his registered services
Consultations and operations are carried out at Medicalpark Mersin Hospital. Op. Dr. Ersan Semerci has practised in Mersin since 2010. Patients travelling from Mersin and neighbouring provinces can book via WhatsApp.
Book on WhatsAppA lump was found in my breast. Is it cancer?
Most lumps found in the breast are benign. Cysts and fibroadenomas are very common in young women. The distinction is made by examination, ultrasound, mammography where needed, and biopsy.
Will my breast be removed if I have breast cancer?
Not necessarily. In suitable patients, breast-conserving surgery removes the tumour and a margin of healthy tissue while preserving the breast. The decision weighs tumour size, location, number of foci and breast size together.
What is the point of sentinel lymph node biopsy?
The first lymph node draining the tumour is marked, removed and examined during surgery. If it is clear, the remaining axillary nodes are not removed, which prevents long-term problems such as arm swelling.
Consultation and Appointments in Mersin
For symptoms within Breast Disease and Breast Cancer you can book an appointment at Medicalpark Mersin Hospital. Mezitli / Mersin, Turkey, weekdays 09:00-17:00.
WhatsApp: +90 542 236 05 33Disclaimer. This page is provided for general information only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or a treatment recommendation, and it is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis and treatment by a physician. The content is not tailored to any individual and is not intended as advertising. Which method is suitable for you can only be determined after examination and the necessary investigations. Consult your own doctor about any decision concerning your health.