Definition & Meaning of "lumpectomy"

What is a "lumpectomy"?

A lumpectomy is a surgical procedure where a small tumor or abnormal tissue, typically in the breast, is removed while keeping as much healthy tissue as possible. It is often used to treat breast cancer or other abnormal growths. During a lumpectomy, the surgeon removes the tumor along with a small amount of healthy tissue around it to make sure that all cancerous cells are removed. This approach aims to maintain the appearance of the breast and may be followed by radiation therapy to reduce the risk of the cancer returning. Compared to mastectomy, which is the complete removal of the breast, lumpectomy generally allows for quicker recovery and maintains more of the breast's natural structure.