General Information
DEFINITION--Removal of a lump or cyst from one of the breasts.
BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Female breast; male breast (rare).
REASONS FOR SURGERY--Signs or symptoms that may indicate breast cancer.
Laboratory examination of the removed tissue aids in diagnosis.
SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH
- Obesity.
- Stress.
- Smoking.
- Poor nutrition.
- Recent or chronic illness.
- Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep
inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
- Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens;
marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.
What To Expect
WHO OPERATES--General surgeon.
WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital or outpatient surgical facility.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
- Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; x-rays of chest; mammogram (See Glossary).
- After surgery: Laboratory examination of removed tissue.
ANESTHESIA
- Local anesthesia by injection.
- General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the
windpipe.
DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION
- Needles may be inserted into the breast to localize the lump or cyst.
- An incision is made over the cyst or lump to be removed.
- The cyst or lump is cut free of surrounding tissue and removed.
- Bleeding is controlled with ties or electrocautery.
- The skin is closed with sutures or clips, which usually can be removed about 1 week
after surgery.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Excessive bleeding.
- Surgical-wound infection.
- Unsightly scar on breast (rare).
AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--0 to 1 day.
PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 2
weeks for recovery from surgery.
Postoperative Care
GENERAL MEASURES
- A hard ridge should form along the incision. As it heals, the ridge will recede
gradually.
- Use an electric heating pad, a heat lamp or a warm compress to relieve incisional pain.
- Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incision gently with mild unscented soap.
- Wear a supportive bra. Apply bandages to the surgical wound and change them as directed
by your doctor.
† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.
† To help recovery and aid your well--
being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as possible.
- Avoid vigorous exercise for 2 weeks after surgery. > Resume driving 3 to 5 days after
returning home.
DIET---No special diet.
Call Your Doctor If
† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.
- You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill
feeling and fever.
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