People have had very sad experiences associated with the term 'cancer.'
Have you ever lost a loved one to cancer or did your close friend get diagnosed
with one? Does anyone you know has just discovered that they are in the last
stage of cancer or does your close relative has drained out all the savings for
the treatment? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then you sure
had a feeling of it feels to be affected by a terminal disease. Breast cancer
is one of the most common forms of cancer, especially among women, and also one
of the leading causes of death.
Lumpectomy is a form of surgical treatment wherein the breast tumor or
malignant cells and surrounding tissues are removed, keeping the natural
appearance as well as the cosmetic quality of breasts, intact. Such treatment
is also called the ‘breast preservation' treatment because in this case,
unlike mastectomy (which involves complete removal of the breast); only the affected
portions are removed. A Los
Angeles lumpectomy specialist can offer world-class treatment for
breast cancer. Note down some important points to know about lumpectomy:
·
Before you go for
lumpectomy, know well about the associated risks. Depending on the lump size
that has been removed, there might be numbness and some loss of sensation after
the surgery. The breasts may not match in size post-surgery, due to the removal
of breast tissues. Other risks include pain, infection, bleeding, swelling,
scars and the formation of scar tissues around the affected area.
·
Before you choose the
doctor for the surgery, know him or her well. Get a thorough knowledge about
how many times the doctor has performed lumpectomy, the risks associated with
surgery, the procedure details and the extent of tissue removal, appearance of
breast post-treatment, blood loss or vulnerability to infections, recovery time
span, precautions or any change in routine after the surgery, and any further
follow-ups.
·
Although your doctor will
give clear instructions about how to prepare for the surgery, keep a few
important pointers in mind such as stop taking blood-thinning medicines a week
before the surgery so as to reduce the risk of blood loss, don't have anything
to eat or drink for the prescribed time period before the surgery, do get along
close relatives or friends, and keep your insurance company notified of the
event.
·
Post-surgery, it is
important to take prescribed painkillers and other medications. Do take care of
the bandages as the area affected will have numbness, swelling or irritation.
Do not overlook the signs of infection and follow the written instructions. The
doctor might prescribe certain arm exercise and restriction of other
activities. Also, know when to come back for follow-ups and how frequently.
·
There are other options
for treating breast cancer. Consult your doctor and if required, go for a
second opinion. Establish a comfort zone with your doctor and talk freely about
all your fears and apprehensions. Weigh the advantages and risks well before
you proceed with the decision of surgery.
Early detection and preventive measures can ensure the complete
elimination of this cancer. So stay aware and stay fit!
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