Breast Cancer Treatment Methods

Breast cancer treatment is planned based on the type and stage of the disease, and the individual's overall health. Thanks to current advancements in medical technology, breast cancer is highly treatable, especially when caught in its early stages. In this article, we will examine the most commonly used methods for breast cancer treatment.

Surgical Methods

Surgery is one of the most common methods of breast cancer treatment. The goal is to remove the tumor tissue.

1. Lumpectomy (Breast Conserving Surgery)
✔️ The tumor and a small amount of healthy tissue surrounding it are removed
✔️ The breast is largely preserved
✔️ Often supported by radiotherapy

2. Mastectomy
✔️ All breast tissue is removed
✔️ Can be single-sided or double-sided
✔️ Reconstruction (breast reconstruction) option is available

3. Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
✔️ It is done to determine whether the cancer has spread to the armpit lymph nodes.

4. Axillary Dissection
If the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, the lymph nodes under the armpit are removed.

Radiotherapy (Radiation Therapy)

It is used to destroy any remaining cancer cells after surgery.
➤ Purpose: To reduce the risk of recurrence
➤ Usually applied after lumpectomy
➤ Radiation is given to the chest and armpit
➤ Treatment duration is usually 4–6 weeks

Chemotherapy

Drug therapy is used to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.
✔️ Preoperative (neoadjuvant): To shrink the tumor
✔️ Post-operative (adjuvant): To reduce the risk of recurrence
✔️ Side effects: Hair loss, nausea, etc.

Hormone Therapy

It is used in breast cancers that are estrogen or progesterone receptor positive.
➤ Tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors
➤ Inhibits cell growth
➤ Usually used for 5–10 years

Targeted Therapies

Special medications are used in HER2 positive breast cancers.
✔️ Most common drug: Trastuzumab (Herceptin)
✔️ It prevents cancer cells from multiplying by binding to certain proteins in them.

Immunotherapy

In some advanced breast cancers, medications that strengthen the immune system are used.
➤ Activates the body's own defense mechanisms against cancer cells

Psychological Support During the Treatment Process

Breast cancer treatment is not only physically challenging but also psychologically challenging.
✔️ Psychological support increases treatment success
✔️ Support groups and individual therapy make the process easier

Post-Treatment Aesthetic Complementary Solutions

Some women may experience nipple loss after a mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery. This can affect their aesthetic appearance and self-confidence.

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