John A.P. Rimmer, M.D. is a leading general surgeon whose vast fields of expertise include lumpectomy in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida who is known for his expertise and years of experience with breast cancer patients. The following information will give you a better understanding of lumpectomy procedures and what you can expect.

Lumpectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove cancer or abnormal tissue from the breast. Lumpectomy is also referred to as breast sparing/conserving surgery because, contrary to a mastectomy, just a percentage of the breast is removed. Lumpectomy helps rule out or confirm a cancer diagnosis and is the first treatment considered for women dealing with early stage breast cancer in many cases. In instances where cancer is found, lumpectomy is typically followed by radiation therapy to lessen the chances of the cancer returning.

Lumpectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia, meaning you are unconscious during the surgery. The surgeon makes an incision in the breast and removes the tumor and a small area of normal tissue bordering the tumor. Next the surgeon performing and lumpectomy in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida stitches the incision closed and will do everything they can to keep the breast looking, as closely as possible, as normal as it did prior to surgery. Next, the tissue that was removed during surgery is delivered to a pathologist for comprehensive testing.

Research has indicated that lumpectomy is as efficient a treatment as a mastectomy (removal of the entire breast) for women with early stage breast cancer. The physician will probably propose lumpectomy if a biopsy has found that the patient has early stage cancer and it is small. Lumpectomy is also used to remove certain non-cancerous or pre-cancerous breast abnormalities.

Lumpectomy or breast conserving surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures used to treat breast cancer today. If you're looking for a reputable general surgeon experienced in Lumpectomy in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, call Dr. Rimmer ((561) 748-1242. The doctor specializes in diseases of the breast and is known not only for his surgical expertise but his calming, easy to talk to manner; you won't find a better health care advocate.