Breast Cancer Surgery
Surgery is often the first step in treating breast cancer. It is used to remove the tumour from the breast, and to assess the lymph nodes. Surgery alone may cure some breast cancers but it is commonly used in combination with other treatments such as radiation, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy or biological therapy.
There are two types of breast surgery: breast-conserving therapy, also called lumpectomy (removal of a portion of the breast) and mastectomy (removal of the entire breast). Deciding which surgery is best for a patient is an individualized discussion between a patient and the surgeon.
Some women who have surgery as part of their breast cancer treatment may choose to have breast reconstruction surgery to rebuild the shape of the breast, either at the same time as the removal of the breast cancer, or later, after all treatments are completed.
Learn more about Sunnybrook’s Breast Reconstruction Program
Meet the doctors
We are a team of renowned breast cancer surgeons who are here for you when it matters most.
Dr. Vivian Yuen
Rapid Diagnostic Unit Physician Lead,
Breast Diagnostic Physician Lead
We are here to support you
Our dedicated Patient and Family Support Team is here to help.
- Emotional support
- Social worker support (finances, support services)
- Physiotherapy / occupational therapy
- Lymphadema clinic
- Nutrition
- Drug reimbursement costs
Marion C. Soloway Breast
Rapid Diagnostic Unit (RDU)
Our clinic provides rapid assessment and diagnosis for individuals with an abnormality on a mammogram, breast ultrasound or a clinical finding that is highly suspicious of breast cancer.
