Breast cancer surgery in Monterrey, Mexico: lumpectomy, mastectomy and sentinel node biopsy

Who performs the surgery

I am a gynecologist with advanced training in breast disease (mastology) and I direct the public women’s cancer detection and diagnosis unit of the state of Nuevo León (UNEME DEDICAM). I perform breast cancer surgery at Hospital Ángeles Valle Oriente in the Monterrey metropolitan area. Every case is reviewed with medical oncology before deciding whether surgery comes first or after neoadjuvant treatment.

Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy)

The tumor is removed with a margin of healthy tissue and the breast is preserved. For early-stage tumors, lumpectomy followed by radiation offers the same survival as mastectomy, and it is the option for most women diagnosed early.

Mastectomy

The whole breast gland is removed. It is indicated when the tumor is large relative to the breast, when there are several foci, when radiation is not possible or by the informed choice of the patient. When the case allows it, skin is preserved and reconstruction is planned with plastic surgery from the start.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy

During surgery the first axillary node that drains the breast is identified and analyzed. If it is clear, the remaining nodes are left in place, which avoids lymphedema and loss of arm mobility.

Recovery and what comes next

Lumpectomy is usually outpatient or one night in hospital; mastectomy, one to two nights. The pathology report defines the complementary treatment —radiation, chemotherapy, hormonal or targeted therapy— which I coordinate with oncology and radiation oncology. I remain your physician throughout: wound checks, results and follow-up.

Frequently asked questions