What is a partial mastectomy?

A partial mastectomy refers specifically to the surgical procedure in which only the breast tissue surrounding a cancerous area is removed, rather than the entire breast. This treatment option aims to eliminate cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy breast tissue as possible, allowing for better cosmetic outcomes and potentially enhancing the quality of life for the patient after surgery. By focusing only on the affected area, partial mastectomies can be effective in managing localized breast cancer while minimizing significant changes to breast appearance. This technique contrasts sharply with other procedures that may involve removing all breast tissue or entirely reconstructing the breast, which serve different medical and aesthetic purposes.