Surgical management is central to breast cancer treatment, aiming to remove the tumor and any potentially affected tissues. over time, surgical approaches have shifted from radical mastectomy, which involved removing the entire breast and surrounding tissues, to more conservative methods. breast-conserving surgery (bcs), or lumpectomy, is now commonly used for early-stage breast cancer, involving tumor removal with a margin of healthy tissue, often followed by radiation therapy. bcs offers equivalent survival rates to mastectomy in suitable patients, making it a preferred option.

sentinel lymph node biopsy (slnb) has improved axillary staging while reducing the risks associated with extensive lymph node removal, such as lymphedema. for more advanced cases or when multiple tumors are present, mastectomy may still be necessary. modern techniques like skin-sparing and nipple-sparing mastectomies, often paired with immediate or delayed reconstruction, enhance cosmetic outcomes and improve quality of life.

surgical decisions are guided by factors like tumor characteristics, genetic predisposition, and patient preferences. advances in surgical techniques and a multidisciplinary approach are essential in optimizing outcomes, emphasizing personalized care in breast cancer treatment.