Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in South African women. It is caused by the abnormal division of cells in the breast which destroy normal breast tissue and can spread throughout the rest of the body. The type of breast cancer is classified by the rate of growth and treatment options differ for each type, however breast surgery is the most common intervention.

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptoms of breast cancer include a change in the size or shape of the breast; lump or thickening of tissue in the breast or armpit; breast pain; nipple discharge; dimpled skin over the breast and scaliness or retraction of the nipple.

What are the treatment options?

Treatment is dependent upon the severity of each individual’s cancer. Treatment often includes surgical intervention such as a lumpectomy or mastectomy in conjunction with other chemical treatment methods like radiation, chemotherapy and hormone therapy. Lumpectomy surgery (or partial mastectomy) is a surgical procedure in which the and surrounding breast tissue is removed, while a mastectomy, on the other hand, is where the entire breast and lymph nodes are removed by your surgeon in order to prevent further tumour growth.

For many women, their breasts are an important part of the identity and their sense of sexuality and femininity. Deciding which surgical procedure is best is a personal decision that needs to be made with your surgeon as it is not a decision made lightly. The size, location and type of a tumour as well as lifestyle and psychological concerns need to be considered when choosing a specific surgical treatment.

Dr Tendani Muthambi has the expertise to advise the best treatment procedure for your individual needs, likely outcomes of surgery, reconstruction concerns and or possible complications, as well as help, address psychological issues and enhances your overall well-being throughout the entire process.

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