Breast Cancer Surgery
Breast Cancer SurgeryBreast cancer surgery can be a crucial part of treatment, and for many people, it’s the first step toward recovery. At NewYork-Presbyterian, our specialists use advanced surgical techniques and a team-based approach to deliver personalized care. We work closely with you to explain your options, coordinate next steps, and support you throughout all stages of treatment.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with breast cancer or considering treatment options, this page explains when breast cancer surgery is recommended, the types of procedures available, and what to expect before, during, and after surgery. If you are looking for a breast surgeon in the New York City area — including Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Westchester, and Hudson Valley — our team provides expert care across surgery, oncology, imaging, and reconstruction services.
When is breast cancer surgery used?
When Surgery Is UsedFor many people, surgery is the first and most important step toward recovery. The main goal is to remove the cancer from the breast and, if necessary, check nearby lymph nodes to see if the disease has spread.
We look at several key factors together to build your surgical plan:
- Tumor Characteristics: The size and location of the tumor, as well as its "biology" (such as hormone receptor or HER2 status).
- Stage of Disease: Whether the cancer has reached the lymph nodes.
- Your Personal Goals: Your overall health, lifestyle, and how you feel about your treatment options.
In some cases, we may suggest neoadjuvant (NEE-oh-A-juh-vunt) therapy, such as chemotherapy or hormone therapy, before your operation. This is done to shrink a tumor, which can often allow for a more precise, less extensive surgery, and helps inform the best systemic therapies to reduce the risk of recurrence and improve outcomes.
Types of Surgery
Types of SurgeryThere are two main types of breast cancer surgery used to remove tumors from the breast: lumpectomy and mastectomy. Both are effective breast cancer treatments, and choosing between them depends on clinical factors as well as your personal preferences.
Lumpectomy (Breast-Conserving Surgery)
A lumpectomy removes the tumor along with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue, preserving most of the breast. This procedure is also known as cosmetic sensitive surgery. It is often followed by radiation therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Lumpectomy may be recommended if:
- The cancer is confined to one area
- The tumor is relatively small compared to breast size
- You prefer to keep your breast
Whenever appropriate, our surgeons use oncoplastic techniques, which combine cancer surgery with plastic surgery methods to help preserve the shape and appearance of the breast.
Mastectomy
A mastectomy involves the removal of the entire breast. Depending on your condition, different types of mastectomies may be performed, including:
- Total (simple) mastectomy
- Skin-sparing mastectomy: Removes the entire breast but maintains the skin that covers it; a teardrop-shaped incision is made around the areola to perform this surgery.
- Nipple-sparing mastectomy: It may be possible to preserve both the skin and the nipple while removing the underlying cancer.
Mastectomy may be recommended if:
- The tumor is large or involves multiple areas of the breast
- There is a high risk of recurrence
- You have a genetic predisposition (such as BRCA mutation)
- You prefer a more extensive surgical option
In some cases, mastectomy can be combined with immediate reconstruction. Your surgeon will review all available options and help you decide what approach is right for you.
Lumpectomy vs Mastectomy: What’s the Difference?
Both procedures are highly effective. For many early-stage cancers, studies show similar long-term survival outcomes between lumpectomy (with radiation) and mastectomy.`
The key differences include:
- Extent of surgery: Lumpectomy removes only the tumor; mastectomy removes the entire breast
- Recovery time: Lumpectomy generally involves a shorter recovery
- Radiation therapy: Usually required after lumpectomy; may or may not be needed after mastectomy
- Cosmetic outcome: Lumpectomy preserves most of the breast; mastectomy may involve reconstruction
Your care team will help you weigh these options based on your diagnosis, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Lymph Node Evaluation
Lymph Node EvaluationChecking the lymph nodes is a standard part of breast surgery. It helps us understand the stage of the cancer and decide if further treatment, like chemotherapy or radiation, is needed.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB)
A sentinel lymph node biopsy is the most common way to check for spread. The “sentinel” nodes are the first lymph nodes that cancer cells are likely to reach. During surgery, a small number of these nodes are identified and removed for testing.
This technique:
- Minimizes the number of lymph nodes removed
- Reduces the risk of side effects like lymphedema
- Provides critical staging information
If cancer is found in the sentinel nodes, additional treatment such as radiation or further surgery may be recommended.
Axillary Lymph Node Dissection (ALND)
If cancer is found in several nodes, your surgeon may need to remove additional nodes from the underarm area. If this is necessary, we can often discuss lymphatic reconstruction options to help protect your quality of life and arm mobility.
Recovery & Follow-up
Recovery & Follow-upEvery patient’s recovery is unique. NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia experts are actively researching ways to improve cancer survivorship and reduce long-term side effects.
What should I expect after surgery?
Common experiences include:
- Mild to moderate pain or discomfort
- Swelling or bruising
- Temporary numbness in the surgical area
- Limited arm movement (especially if lymph nodes were removed)
Pain is typically well managed with medication, and many patients return to normal daily activities within a few weeks.
Healing and Activity
As you begin to heal, your care team will provide a personalized timeline to help you safely return to your normal routine.
These are the typical recommendations:
- Light activities can usually resume within a few days
- More strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks
- Physical therapy or guided exercises may be recommended to restore range of motion
If surgical drains are placed, your care team will teach you how to manage them at home.
Follow-up Care
Your care doesn’t stop after surgery. NewYork-Presbyterian provides ongoing support, including survivorship programs, rehabilitation, and access to specialists across oncology disciplines.
After surgery, you’ll have follow-up appointments to:
- Monitor healing
- Review pathology results
- Discuss additional treatments (if needed), such as radiation or systemic therapy
You can also learn more about enrolling in clinical trials and the Women at Risk Program.
Clinical Trials
Our physicians and researchers at Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine lead clinical trials for patients at all stages of breast cancer.
These studies provide access to new and emerging treatments that are being evaluated for safety and effectiveness, while also helping advance breast cancer research.
Clinical trials may be considered at different points in treatment depending on diagnosis and eligibility, and your care team will discuss options with you if appropriate.
Women at Risk Program
Our Women at Risk Program offers specialized screening, education, and risk-reduction strategies for people at higher risk of developing breast cancer. Additional services include genetic counseling, fertility preservation, nutrition support, rehabilitation, and mental health care.
Reconstruction Coordination
Reconstruction CoordinationFor patients undergoing mastectomy, breast reconstruction after a mastectomy is an important option to consider. At NewYork-Presbyterian, breast surgeons and plastic surgeons work together to plan and coordinate reconstruction as part of your overall care.
When Reconstruction Happens
Reconstruction can be performed:
- Immediately (at the same time as mastectomy)
- Delayed (after other treatments, such as radiation)
The timing depends on your medical needs and personal preferences.
What are the different types of breast reconstruction?
There are several approaches to reconstruction, including:
- Implant-based reconstruction: Uses saline or silicone implants
- Autologous (flap) reconstruction: Uses your own tissue from another part of the body
- Combination approaches: Involve both implants and tissue
Your surgical team will explain each option, including expected outcomes, recovery time, and potential risks.
Why Choose Us
What sets New York-Presbyterian apart is the level of coordination across specialties.
Your surgical oncologist and reconstructive surgeon work together to:
- Plan incisions that optimize cosmetic results
- Preserve as much natural tissue as possible
- Align reconstruction with your long-term goals
This integrated approach ensures that both cancer treatment and quality of life are prioritized.
How to Schedule
How to ScheduleIf you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer or are seeking a second opinion, scheduling a consultation is the first step. At NewYork-Presbyterian, you’ll meet with an experienced breast surgeon who will review your diagnosis, explain your options, and develop a personalized surgical plan.
What should I expect at my breast surgery consultation?
During your visit, you can expect:
- A thorough review of your imaging and pathology
- Discussion of surgical options, including lumpectomy and mastectomy
- Evaluation of whether a sentinel lymph node biopsy is recommended
- Introduction to reconstruction options, if applicable
- Time to ask questions and discuss your preferences
We encourage you to bring a family member or support person to help you navigate the conversation.
Locations and Access
NewYork-Presbyterian offers breast cancer surgery services across multiple locations in New York City and the surrounding area, making it easier to access care close to home.
Our network includes:
- Comprehensive cancer centers
- Specialized breast surgery clinics
- Multidisciplinary care teams under one roof
Schedule Your Appointment
To schedule a consultation or learn more about breast cancer surgery, contact NewYork-Presbyterian today. Call us or request an appointment online to connect with a breast surgical oncology specialist.
General Appointment Lines
- Main Breast Cancer Care: 877-697-9355
- Need Help Finding a Doctor?: 877-426-5637
- Newly Diagnosed Nurse Virtual Visits: 212-746-6000
This content has been reviewed by the following medical editors.