Breast conservation surgery, commonly known as lumpectomy, allows you to maintain your natural breast while effectively treating cancer. Unlike mastectomy, which removes the entire breast, lumpectomy excises just the tumor and a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue. This approach preserves most of your breast tissue while still providing effective cancer treatment when combined with radiation therapy. However, even though lumpectomy conserves the majority of your breast

This article is based on the book "Breast Reconstruction Explained" by Dr. Foumani. The type of breast cancer surgery you undergo — whether mastectomy or lumpectomy — shapes your reconstruction options and outcomes. Each surgical approach creates different starting points for rebuilding, with distinct possibilities and considerations. Understanding these nuances ensures you can make well-informed decisions that align with both your personal wishes and your specific medical si