Definition

Noun: A surgical procedure to remove a tumor or lump from the breast while preserving as much of the surrounding healthy breast tissue as possible. It is typically performed as a treatment for some types of breast cancer and is often followed by radiation therapy.

Usage

This term is used specifically in medical contexts, particularly in oncology (cancer treatment) and surgery. It describes a less invasive surgical option compared to a full mastectomy (removal of the entire breast).

Examples

• The patient opted for a lumpectomy followed by radiation.
• After her diagnosis, she discussed the pros and cons of a lumpectomy versus a mastectomy with her surgeon.
• A lumpectomy is often considered when the tumor is detected at an early stage.

Advanced Usage

• "to undergo a lumpectomy": This phrase describes the patient's experience of having the procedure.
  • She will undergo a lumpectomy next week.
• The procedure can be qualified by the type of cancer or location.
  • The surgeon performed a lumpectomy for the ductal carcinoma.

Variants and Related Words

• Mastectomy (noun): The surgical removal of the entire breast, often contrasted with a lumpectomy.
• Tumorectomy (noun): A synonym sometimes used, meaning surgical removal of a tumor.
• Breast-conserving surgery (noun phrase): A broader term that includes lumpectomy as a primary example.

Synonyms

• Breast-conserving surgery
• Partial mastectomy
• Tumorectomy

Antonyms

• Mastectomy (specifically, total or simple mastectomy)

Notes on Meaning

A lumpectomy is defined not just by the removal of a lump, but by its intent to conserve the breast. It is a specific treatment pathway for breast cancer and is almost always part of a broader treatment plan that includes other therapies like radiation.

Noun

1. surgical removal of a tumor without removing much of the surrounding tissue or lymph nodes; performed in some cases of breast cancer