Specialty Category
Breast Surgery
Breast surgery covers the diagnosis and treatment of benign and malignant breast diseases such as breast cancer, breast cysts and fibroadenoma. In treatment planning, oncological safety is considered together with the aesthetic outcome and the patient's psychosocial well-being.
Overview
Breast-conserving surgery, mastectomy and simultaneous/delayed reconstruction options are planned on a patient-specific basis. Modern techniques such as sentinel lymph node biopsy reduce axillary morbidity.
Who Is It For?
- Women with a suspicious mass or calcification detected by mammography/ultrasound
- Patients diagnosed with breast cancer by biopsy
- Individuals with recurrent or symptomatic breast cysts
- Patients with a fibroadenoma that is growing, symptomatic or of uncertain diagnosis
- Those under high-risk surveillance because of a family history
Treatment Process
- 1
Pre-Assessment & Diagnosis
The diagnosis is confirmed and the stage of the disease clarified through a detailed history, physical examination and the necessary imaging and laboratory tests.
- 2
Planning & Preparation
An anaesthesia consultation, bleeding profile and review of any accompanying conditions are carried out; a multidisciplinary council decision is taken when needed.
- 3
Procedure / Operation
The procedure is performed with the technique most suitable for the patient (laparoscopic, robotic or open); tissue integrity and oncological principles are preserved.
- 4
Follow-up & Monitoring
Early mobilization, pain control and wound monitoring are provided; suture removal and a general assessment check-up are planned after discharge.
Recovery & Aftercare
Pain after breast surgery is usually mild to moderate; arm movements and drain monitoring are the main focus of the early period.
Hospital Stay
0-2 days
Recovery Time
1-3 weeks
Follow-up
Day 10 and week 4
Frequently Asked Questions
Is breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy required?
The decision is made by evaluating tumor size, its ratio to breast volume, multifocality, genetic status and patient preference together. In suitable cases, breast-conserving surgery is oncologically safe.
What is a sentinel lymph node?
It is the first axillary lymph node that drains from the tumor. The need for extensive axillary dissection is determined according to whether this node is involved; unnecessary clearance of the entire axilla is avoided.
Can reconstruction be done at the same time?
In suitable cases, reconstruction with an implant or the patient's own tissue can be planned in the same session as the mastectomy; the decision is made according to the oncological plan and patient preference.
Will my arm movements be restricted after the operation?
There may be temporary restriction in the early period; with an appropriate physiotherapy program, arm movements return to normal within 4-6 weeks.
The medical information on this page has been reviewed by Prof. Dr. Vahit Onur Gül. Last updated: 31 Temmuz 2026.
This information is for general guidance only and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician about your symptoms.
Content officer / site editor: vahitonurgul@hotmail.com