A breast lumpectomy is a breast‑conserving operation that removes the cancer along with a small rim of healthy tissue, while keeping the natural breast and its shape as much as possible. Also called a wide local excision, a lumpectomy may be recommended depending on the size and position of the cancer and other individual patient factors.
At New Victoria Hospital, our nationally recognised Breast Surgeons specialise in lumpectomy and breast‑conserving techniques. Supported by a highly experienced multidisciplinary team of nurses and physiotherapists, and with access to a world‑class imaging suite, our Breast Consultants provide complete and personalised breast cancer care — from initial diagnosis through to treatment and recovery.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with 1 in 8 women diagnosed during their lifetime. Although it is more common in women over 50, it can also appear in younger women — and in rare cases, it can affect men.
Cancer develops when abnormal cells in the body grow and multiply uncontrollably, often forming a tumour. These cancer cells can spread into nearby healthy tissues and organs.
People with breast cancer can have different symptoms, but the most common is a lump or an area of thickened breast tissue. Breast lumps are very common and most are not cancerous, but it is always best to have them checked to ensure early diagnosis and improve the chances of successful treatment.
Other symptoms include:
- A change in the size or shape of the breast(s)
- New skin indentation
- New permanent nipple inversion
- Discharge from the nipple
- A lump or swollen area in the armpit
- A rash surrounding the nipple
- A change in the appearance of the nipple
The causes of breast cancer are not yet completely understood, but there are some factors that are known to increase risk. These include:
- Age
- Family breast cancer history
- Previous diagnosis of breast cancer
- Previous benign lump in the breast
- Overweight
- Alcohol consumption
There are a number of different types of breast cancer, but they are commonly divided into two categories:
- Non‑invasive breast cancer (ductal carcinoma in situ, DCIS): Cancer cells are found inside the microscopic ducts of the breast but have not spread into the surrounding breast tissue.
- Invasive breast cancer: Cancer cells have spread through the duct walls into the surrounding breast tissue. This is the most common type of breast cancer.
What is a Lumpectomy (Breast-Conserving Surgery)?
A lumpectomy is a type of breast‑conserving surgery where the cancer is removed along with a small rim of healthy tissue, while keeping the natural breast and its shape as much as possible. It is commonly used for people with early‑stage breast cancer.
What Is Oncoplastic Breast Surgery?
Oncoplastic breast surgery combines cancer surgery with plastic surgery techniques. This means the surgeon can remove the cancer safely and reshape the breast at the same time. With oncoplastic methods, surgeons can remove larger tumours or more than one area of cancer and still preserve the breast. This allows many more patients to avoid a mastectomy.
What Have Recent Studies Shown?
Recent research has shown that:
- Breast‑conserving surgery (including oncoplastic techniques) is as safe as mastectomy in terms of cancer control.
- Large studies have found that survival after breast‑conserving surgery is at least equal, and sometimes better, than after mastectomy.
- Oncoplastic surgery allows wider removal of tissue without increasing the risk of the cancer returning.
- Patients often report better cosmetic results and quality of life when the breast is preserved.
Is Oncoplastic Surgery Safe?
Yes. When performed by trained breast and oncoplastic surgeons, it is considered safe and effective. The cancer is removed with clear margins, and complication rates are similar to standard breast‑conserving surgery.
In simple terms: oncoplastic surgery makes breast‑conserving treatment possible for many more women, while keeping the breast and its natural shape safely.
Lumpectomy at New Victoria Hospital
The multidisciplinary Breast Team at New Victoria Hospital has extensive experience in performing lumpectomy, breast‑conserving surgery and oncoplastic procedures. Supported by specialist nurses and physiotherapists, our nationally recognised Oncoplastic Breast Surgeons provide world‑class, personalised care for every patient undergoing breast cancer surgery.
From the moment you arrive, we aim to make you feel comfortable and reassured. Before surgery, you will have time to speak with your Consultant, ask questions, and understand each step of your treatment.
During the Operation
During a lumpectomy, the cancer and a small rim of surrounding healthy tissue are removed while preserving the natural breast and its shape as much as possible.
If needed, a few lymph nodes from the armpit may also be removed and sent to the laboratory for testing. A pathologist will examine the tissue around the tumour to check for cancer cells.
If no cancer cells are found, this is called a clear margin, meaning further surgery is unlikely and the risk of the cancer returning is reduced.
Radiotherapy and Other Treatments
Most patients with invasive breast cancer who have breast‑conserving surgery will be offered radiotherapy to the whole breast after their operation. Your Consultant will talk you through when this should begin and how it fits into your overall treatment plan, so you feel fully prepared and supported.
If chemotherapy is also part of your treatment, it will usually take place before radiotherapy. Your team will guide you step by step, making sure you understand each stage and have the chance to ask anything that’s on your mind.
Our Commitment to Your Care
We understand that any cancer‑related treatment can feel overwhelming. Our experienced Breast Team is committed to providing exceptional care, guidance and compassion throughout your journey — from diagnosis to surgery, recovery and long‑term follow‑up.
Consultants and Clinic Times
Miss Chloe Constantinou
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Mr Mohsen El Gammal
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Mr Georgios Exarchos
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Ms Katerina Micha
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Miss Sarah Tang
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