Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women. Early diagnosis, accurate evaluation, and timely treatment planning are important for managing the disease. Treatment is selected according to the type, stage, and characteristics of the cancer and the patient's overall health.
Dr. Aditya Reelkar is a Surgical Oncologist providing surgical care for patients with breast cancer. Treatment planning is individualised based on the location and extent of the tumour, cancer stage, pathology findings, and the patient's specific needs.
Breast cancer develops when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and form a tumour. It can occur in different parts of the breast and may have different biological characteristics.
A breast lump, change in breast size or shape, nipple discharge, skin changes, or changes in the nipple may require medical evaluation. Not every breast change is cancerous, but persistent or unusual changes should be assessed by a qualified medical professional.
Evaluation of a suspected breast cancer may include a clinical breast examination, mammography, ultrasound, breast MRI in selected cases, and tissue diagnosis through a biopsy when required. Pathology and other investigations help determine the type and characteristics of the cancer.
Surgery may be an important part of treatment for many patients with breast cancer. Depending on the tumour size, location, stage, and other factors, surgery may involve removal of the tumour while preserving the breast or removal of the entire breast.
Breast-conserving surgery, also known as lumpectomy or wide local excision, involves removing the cancerous tumour along with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue. The aim is to remove the cancer while preserving as much of the breast as appropriate.
A mastectomy involves removal of breast tissue and may be recommended in certain situations depending on the size, location, number of tumours, genetic risk, or other clinical factors. The appropriate type of mastectomy is discussed based on the individual patient's condition.
Breast cancer surgery may also involve evaluation or removal of lymph nodes in the underarm area. Sentinel lymph node biopsy and other lymph node procedures may be considered depending on the cancer and its stage.
Breast reconstruction may be considered for selected patients undergoing mastectomy. Reconstruction can be performed at the time of cancer surgery or at a later stage, depending on the patient's treatment plan and individual circumstances.
Breast cancer treatment may involve surgery along with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or other treatments depending on the type and characteristics of the cancer.
A personalised treatment plan helps determine the most appropriate sequence and combination of therapies for each patient.
Breast cancer care may involve a team of specialists, including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other healthcare professionals.
Collaboration between specialists helps ensure that the diagnosis, treatment options, and timing of different treatments are considered together.
Recovery after breast cancer surgery varies depending on the type of procedure and the patient's overall health. Follow-up consultations help monitor recovery, review pathology findings, and plan further treatment or surveillance when required.
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer or have noticed a breast change that requires further evaluation, consultation with a surgical oncologist can help you understand the diagnosis and available treatment options.
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