5 October 2026
Lumpectomy vs Mastectomy: How We Choose What Is Right for You
Removing the whole breast is not always necessary. Learn how breast-conserving and oncoplastic surgery compare with mastectomy.
When breast cancer is diagnosed, one of the first questions women ask is: "Will I lose my breast?" For many women today, the answer is no.
Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy)
A lumpectomy removes the tumour with a margin of healthy tissue, keeping the rest of the breast. It is usually followed by radiotherapy. For suitable patients, outcomes are comparable to mastectomy.
Oncoplastic surgery
Oncoplastic techniques combine cancer surgery with plastic-surgery principles to reshape the remaining tissue, so the breast keeps a natural contour and better symmetry.
When mastectomy is recommended
- A large tumour relative to breast size
- Several tumours in different parts of the breast
- Some genetic risk situations, such as BRCA mutations
- When radiotherapy is not possible
- Personal preference after a full discussion
The lymph nodes
A sentinel lymph node biopsy checks whether cancer has spread to the armpit, often avoiding the need to remove many nodes.
Reconstruction
If mastectomy is needed, reconstruction options can be discussed and coordinated before surgery.
A shared decision
There is rarely one "right" answer. Dr Broeze takes time to explain the options so you can decide together.
The practice provides written quotations with procedure codes; patients obtain pre-authorisation from their own medical aid. Get in touch to discuss your options.