What is a lumpectomy?
A lumpectomy removes breast cancer while keeping as much of the natural breast as possible. It is also called breast-conserving surgery or a partial mastectomy.
The surgeon removes the tumour together with a thin rim of healthy tissue around it, called a clear margin, so that no cancer cells are left behind.
Who is it recommended for?
A lumpectomy is usually recommended for early-stage breast cancer when the tumour is small compared with the size of the breast.
Types of lumpectomy
Open lumpectomy
The surgeon makes an incision over or near the tumour and removes it with a margin of healthy tissue.
Oncoplastic surgery
The surgeon removes the cancer and reshapes the remaining breast tissue in the same operation, using plastic surgery techniques to keep a natural shape and symmetry.
Recovery timeline
- Day of surgery
Most patients go home or back to the hotel the same day. Surgical drains are rarely needed after a lumpectomy.
- First 1–2 weeks
Bruising and swelling settle. You have a check-up with your surgeon and receive your pathology results, which confirm whether the margins are clear.
- Next steps
Because the rest of the breast remains, a lumpectomy is almost always followed by radiotherapy to destroy any microscopic cancer cells.
Risks and side effects
A lumpectomy is a well-established operation, but possible side effects include:
- Changes in the shape or firmness of the breast
- Swelling and bruising
- A collection of fluid under the skin (seroma)
- Occasionally, a second operation if the margins are not clear
Your surgeon will explain the specific risks for your case before you give consent.
What the Lumpectomy package includes
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Hospital and medical care
Your private hospital room, nursing care, pre-operative tests, consultations with your surgeon, anaesthesia, the operation itself and the medication you take home.
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VIP transfers
A private driver meets you at the airport and takes you between the airport, your hotel and the hospital.
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Translator and companion
A medical translator at the hospital, and a companion can travel with you at no extra cost.
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Meals and comfort
Daily meals for you and your companion throughout your stay.
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24/7 patient coordinator
A dedicated coordinator answers your questions before, during and after your trip, in your language.
Lumpectomy FAQ
Is a lumpectomy as effective as a mastectomy?
For suitable early-stage cancers, lumpectomy followed by radiotherapy gives the same long-term survival as a mastectomy. Your surgeon will tell you whether you are a suitable candidate.
What happens if the margins are not clear?
If cancer cells are found at the edge of the removed tissue, a second, smaller operation may be needed to remove more tissue, or a mastectomy may be advised.
