Surgery for Breast Cancer

Richard J. Bleicher, MD, FACS, Leader, Breast Cancer Program, tries to foster a positive environment in which to start his patients' course of treatment and takes the time to explain the pros and cons of each treatment option, so that they can make an informed decision.
Richard J. Bleicher, MD, FACS, Leader, Breast Cancer Program, tries to foster a positive environment in which to start his patients' course of treatment and takes the time to explain the pros and cons of each treatment option, so that they can make an informed decision.

At Fox Chase, our comprehensive approach to breast surgery ranges from breast-sparing treatment to mastectomy and breast reconstruction techniques.

Lumpectomy

Lumpectomy, or breast-sparing surgery, is a procedure in which the surgeon removes the cancer and a margin of normal tissue surrounding the cancer. This surgery is typically followed by radiation therapy if the cancer is invasive. Breast lumpectomies are routinely performed as a breast-conserving surgery, often in conjunction with a lymph node biopsy.

Lymph Node Biopsy

Our breast surgeons routinely perform sentinel lymph node biopsies, either during lumpectomies or mastectomies.

Lymphatic Mapping

To address lymphedema, our surgeons perform lymphatic mapping to trace the lymphatic drainage patterns from the breast cancer tumor to the nearest lymph nodes during surgery where the cancer may spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body.

Mastectomy

Mastectomy is the complete removal of the breast tissue, including the nipple, but not the muscles of the chest wall. It is performed on women who are not candidates for lumpectomy or those who prefer to be treated by mastectomy.

Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction surgery rebuilds and helps restore the look of a natural breast. At Fox Chase Cancer Center, we offer a full range of breast reconstruction options, giving you more choices following breast cancer surgery. Our approaches include microvascular and muscle-sparing procedures and advanced techniques that use your own abdominal tissue.

For women who have opted to have a mastectomy, external artificial breast prostheses may be a short- or long-term alternative to breast reconstruction. Personalized fittings are available at Boo’s Boutique.