Wide Local Excision (Lumpectomy)
Mr Milligan combines cancer surgery with cosmetic techniques to give the best possible aesthetic and oncological outcomes.
What Is a Wide Local Excision (Lumpectomy)?
A wide local excision, also known as a lumpectomy, is a type of breast-conserving surgery performed to remove breast cancer while preserving as much healthy breast tissue as possible. The goal is to excise the tumour along with a margin of normal tissue, maintaining the natural shape of the breast.
Mr Milligan combines cancer surgery with cosmetic techniques to give the best possible aesthetic and oncological outcomes.
Who Is a Candidate for Lumpectomy?
You may be suitable for a wide local excision if:
- Your breast cancer is small in relation to your breast size.
- The tumour is located in a single area of the breast.
- You are willing to undergo radiotherapy after surgery.
- There are no widespread abnormalities on your mammogram or MRI.
- You prefer to retain your natural breast rather than undergo a full mastectomy.
Types of Lumpectomy and Oncoplastic Techniques
Depending on your diagnosis, breast size, and tumour location, Mr Milligan may recommend:
1. Standard Lumpectomy
The tumour and a rim of normal tissue are removed through a small incision. Ideal for smaller tumours.
2. Therapeutic Mammoplasty
A cancer removal combined with a breast reduction or lift. This is especially beneficial for larger-breasted women or when the tumour is located deep within the breast.
3. Volume Replacement Techniques
If significant tissue is removed, fat grafting or local flaps may be used to restore breast shape without implants.
All procedures are tailored to your anatomy and preferences, with cosmetic outcomes carefully considered.
The Lumpectomy Procedure: What to Expect
- Surgery Time: 1 to 2 hours under general anaesthesia.
- Hospital Stay: Usually a day case or overnight stay.
- Incisions: Placed discreetly in natural skin folds where possible.
- Margins: The surrounding tissue is examined to ensure the cancer has been fully removed.
A sentinel lymph node biopsy is often performed during the same procedure to assess if the cancer has spread.
Recovery After Lumpectomy
| Time Post-Surgery | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Return Home | Most patients return home the same day. |
| Pain | Usually mild, managed with simple pain relief. |
| Wound care | Keep the area dry for 5–7 days. Stitches are usually dissolvable |
| Activity | Gentle movement is encouraged; avoid heavy lifting for 2–3 weeks. |
| Return to work | Most women are back to work in 1–2 weeks, depending on the nature of their job. |
| Radiotherapy | Typically starts 4–6 weeks after surgery, lasting around 3 weeks. |
Mr Milligan and his team will guide you through every stage of healing, with post-operative support and tailored aftercare.
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Your Patient Journey with Mr Milligan
1. Consultation
A one-to-one discussion where your diagnosis, imaging, and treatment options are reviewed in detail.
2. Surgical Planning
You’ll be offered the most appropriate surgical approach for cancer clearance and breast preservation. Oncoplastic options are explained thoroughly.
3. Surgery
Performed by Mr Milligan-one of the UK’s leading oncoplastic surgeons with experience in advanced techniques, including endoscopic procedures.
4. Follow-Up
You’ll be seen post-operatively to review healing, pathology results, and next treatment steps such as radiotherapy.
5. Ongoing Support
We work alongside your oncology team to ensure long-term care, surveillance imaging, and emotional support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, almost all patients will need radiotherapy to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence in the breast.
There may be changes in shape or symmetry. However, Mr Milligan uses cosmetic techniques to preserve or restore breast contour whenever possible.
Yes, but the risk is low if margins are clear and radiotherapy is completed. Regular follow-up and imaging are essential.
That depends on your cancer type, grade, and lymph node involvement. Your oncology team will advise after reviewing your pathology.
Yes. Delayed reconstruction or symmetrising surgery (on the opposite breast) can be discussed once cancer treatment is complete.
Why Choose Mr Rob Milligan?
- Oncoplastic Expertise – Combining cancer care with cosmetic finesse
- Personalised Approach – Every surgery is tailored to you
- Latest Techniques – Including volume replacement and scar-minimising methods
- Exceptional Aftercare – Compassionate, comprehensive follow-up
- Local Care in Newcastle – Avoid long-distance travel for world-class treatment
Book Your Private Consultation
If you’re considering a Breast Implant Removal in Newcastle or Gateshead, book a consultation with Mr Milligan to explore your options and receive a personalised treatment plan.
