Cairava

navigation

What's the difference between a lumpectomy and a mastectomy?

A lumpectomy is breast-sparing surgery. It removes the tumor and a little tissue around it. The breast itself stays in place.

Reading level

The main difference is how much is removed. A lumpectomy removes the tumor and some normal tissue around it, but leaves the breast itself in place. A mastectomy removes the whole breast. There are different types of mastectomy. A total mastectomy removes all breast tissue and the nipple. A modified radical mastectomy also removes lymph nodes under the arm and often the lining over the chest muscles. Which surgery is used depends on the stage of the cancer, the size of the tumor, the size of the breast, and whether lymph nodes are involved. Talk with your care team about which option may be right for you.

Free guide

10 questions to ask your care team about Breast cancer

You don't have to become an expert overnight — you just need the right questions in your pocket. Bring these to your next visit.

We’ll email you the guide and occasional plain-language updates. No spam; unsubscribe anytime. Educational only — not medical advice.

Still have a question?

Ask in your own words. Cairava explains it plainly and gives you questions for your care team. Anonymous — identifying details are stripped automatically. Not medical advice.

3 free questions left
Ask Cairava · plain-language education, not medical advice

Ask anything about Breast cancer

Ask in your own words. We’ll explain it plainly, map out what to expect, and give you questions to bring to your care team.

Where you are
Type a question, or tap one below
Questions people ask about Breast cancer
Cairava shares general education, not medical advice. It can’t diagnose you or change your treatment — your care team does that. If something feels like an emergency, call your local emergency number. Questions are de-identified and used to learn what patients need help with.

Sources

Reviewed by Cairava editorial (preview — AI-drafted, pending clinical review).

This page is educational, not medical advice. Talk with your care team about decisions that apply to you. If something feels urgent, contact your care team — for emergencies call your local emergency number.

More about Breast cancer