Breast surgeons are medical specialists who diagnose and treat a wide range of breast conditions, including both cancerous and non-cancerous conditions. Some of the conditions that breast surgeons commonly treat include:
- Breast Cancer: Breast surgeons play a central role in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. They may perform surgeries such as lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery), mastectomy (breast removal), and lymph node procedures to remove cancerous tissue and assess the extent of the disease.
- Breast Tumors: Breast surgeons evaluate and remove benign (non-cancerous) breast tumors, such as fibroadenomas and phyllodes tumors, to alleviate symptoms or for diagnostic purposes.
- Breast Cysts: Surgical drainage or removal of breast cysts may be necessary if they cause pain, discomfort, or if they are recurrent.
- Breast Abscesses: Breast abscesses, often caused by infection, may require surgical drainage and treatment with antibiotics.
- Nipple Discharge: When a patient experiences abnormal nipple discharge, breast surgeons can investigate the underlying cause and perform surgical procedures if necessary.
- Gynecomastia: In men, gynecomastia is the enlargement of breast tissue. Breast surgeons can perform reduction surgery to address this condition.
- Breast Biopsy: Breast surgeons perform biopsies to evaluate breast tissue and determine if it is cancerous or non-cancerous. Biopsies can be done through various techniques, including fine-needle aspiration, core needle biopsy, or surgical biopsy.
- Breast Reconstruction: While primarily performed by plastic surgeons, breast reconstruction often occurs in conjunction with breast surgery. Breast surgeons may collaborate with plastic surgeons to plan and execute reconstructive procedures after mastectomy.
- Axillary Lymph Node Evaluation: Breast surgeons may assess and remove lymph nodes in the axillary (underarm) region to determine if breast cancer has spread to these nodes.
- Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: In certain cases, breast surgeons perform nipple-sparing mastectomy, preserving the nipple and areola during breast removal to enhance cosmetic outcomes.
- Breast Reduction Surgery: Breast surgeons can perform breast reduction surgery (reduction mammoplasty) for individuals experiencing physical discomfort or pain due to excessively large breasts.
- Evaluation of Breast Changes: Breast surgeons assess and investigate any concerning changes in breast tissue, including lumps, skin changes, or asymmetry.
- High-Risk Breast Conditions: For individuals at high risk of breast cancer due to family history or genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1 or BRCA2), breast surgeons may offer risk-reduction surgeries like prophylactic mastectomy.
- Breast Trauma: In cases of breast injuries or trauma, breast surgeons may provide surgical repair and reconstruction.
It’s important to note that breast surgeons often work as part of a multidisciplinary team that includes oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and plastic surgeons to provide comprehensive care for patients with breast conditions. The specific treatment plan will depend on the individual’s diagnosis and needs. Early detection and timely intervention for breast conditions can significantly impact treatment outcomes.
For further guidance, consult Dr. Rajinder Kaur Saggu, one of the top Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon in Delhi
What conditions do breast surgeons treat?