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We have come a long way since the earliest surgeries for breast cancer, when standard treatment was the disfiguring removal of the entirety of the breast, muscle and lymph nodes. Since then, we have had many advances in chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy and surgical techniques for treating breast cancer. We also have learned that more extensive surgery does not lead to better outcomes, lower risk of recurrence or improved survival for patients.
What are the surgical options for the treatment of breast cancer?
If it’s determined that you have breast cancer, your doctor will discuss surgical options with you. There are two types of surgeries: lumpectomy and mastectomy. Surgical removal of lymph nodes may also be performed.
With lumpectomy, the entire tumor is removed, as well as some bordering tissue. This is referred to as breast-conserving surgery. Some lymph nodes under the arm can also be removed during lumpectomy to determine if cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. Other treatments may be required with breast-conserving surgery, including radiation, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy. When the lump cannot be felt, the doctor may have the area scrutinized prior to surgery to accurately identify the abnormality.
A simple mastectomy involves removal of the entire breast as well as some lymph nodes. Reconstruction can be considered after mastectomy as part of your cancer care.
When I first see patients at my clinic, we begin to map out the treatment process. Whether a patient decides to have a lumpectomy or a mastectomy can be a personal decision. With a mastectomy, women would not need to have a mammogram in the future.
How long of a recovery period can patients expect?
Some patients who have breast cancer surgery will go home the same day or they will spend just one night at the hospital. I follow up with all my patients and allow them the opportunity to ask questions post-surgery.
How can patients lower their risk of getting breast cancer?
The average age for a breast cancer patient is 65 years old. However, less than 10% of breast cancer cases are caused by genetics. Cancer is a response to inflammation; it is the body’s reaction in trying to survive. There are some lifestyle factors that can be controlled. Breast cancer is strongly linked to the following factors: consumption of red meat, alcohol usage, stress, disturbance of sleep and gaining weight after menopause. We need to start thinking more about prevention. I host a 5-part series boot camp every year to teach others about ways to prevent cancer and welcome anyone to join.
It is important for women to learn how to reduce their risk, get their annual checkups and if they see something, say something, so that we can catch it early enough.
To reach Dr. Erbella, please call 941-212-2010.
Dr. Erbella has been performing breast surgeries since 2005. He trained at the University of Michigan and University of Florida. At the University of Florida, Dr. Erbella had a mentor who was one of the leading surgeons in breast surgery, and he was his true inspiration. Dr. Erbella played a vital role in helping Manatee Memorial Hospital receive the National Accreditation for Breast Centers (NAPBC). Manatee Memorial is the first hospital in Manatee and Sarasota counties to achieve this accreditation.
Manatee Employee Thanks Dr. Erbella and Staff for Positive Outcome
Shawney Arnold, 38, was born at Manatee Memorial Hospital and has been an employee of the hospital for over 10 years. She recently underwent breast surgery performed by Dr. Erbella.
Arnold’s mom had breast cancer when she was younger, so she has always been aware of it. “I found a knot on the side of my breast, and I initially thought this was nothing. I had a mammogram and ultrasound, and then had to do an MRI to confirm exactly where the ‘lump’ was,” explained Arnold. “Dr. Erbella then performed a biopsy at his office clinic and removed a portion of the lump. This was then sent out to pathology, which confirmed what kind of cancer I had.”
Arnold had an invasive-ductal carcinoma, an estrogen-driven cancer. Dr. Erbella gave her options, and ultimately she decided to move forward with a double mastectomy with reconstruction. “I did have the option to do a lumpectomy, but since my mom had breast cancer, I decided to have both breasts removed,” she said.
The mastectomy and reconstruction took about four hours. Her recovery was very smooth, her scars are small, and she was pleasantly surprised with the outcome. “I was able to go home the same day [after surgery],” she said. “I was given specific post-discharge instructions, including a dietary plan to be sure that I had the best outcome following the surgery.”
Arnold emphasized that both Dr. Erbella and Jill Nash, PA, were both amazing with their communication and continuously checked on her. They went above and beyond to make her feel more comfortable.
“Before I needed Dr. Erbella as my surgeon, I would see how he interacted with patients at work, and he would always put them first,” she added. “He gave them his full attention and is compassionate in what he is doing. Regarding the hospital, Manatee Memorial provided amazing care, the staff and nurses here are great. This was especially reassuring when you are going through something that can cause worry and fear.”
If Arnold could give one piece of advice to other women, she would encourage them to educate themselves and know what their options are. “It is important to do research, ask questions and get a second opinion to know what the best decision is for you,” she said. “I have since referred other women to Dr. Erbella to discuss their scenario with him.”
Manatee Physician Alliance
(941) 212-2010
manateephysicianalliance.com
Physicians are on the medical staff of Manatee Memorial Hospital, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Manatee Memorial Hospital. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice.
