Breast Cancer Treatment Options: What You Should Know

What treatments are available for breast cancer and how do doctors decide which ones are right for you? These are common questions patients ask after diagnosis. It is encouraging that breast cancer is one of the most extensively studied cancers and treatment strategies have evolved significantly over the years.

Today, breast cancer treatment may involve one or more approaches, including surgery, radiation therapy and medication-based treatments such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapy. Some treatments focus on removing or controlling cancer within the breast, while others work throughout the body to reduce the risk of spread or recurrence. Understanding how these options work and when they are used allows patients to take a more active role in treatment discussions.

Breast cancer treatment is tailored to each individual and depends on several key factors. Doctors consider the type and stage of cancer, whether lymph nodes are involved and how far the disease has spread. These details help guide the choice and sequence of treatment.

The biology of the tumour also plays an important role. Testing for hormone receptors and HER2 status provides insight into how the cancer behaves and which therapies are most effective, such as hormone therapy, chemotherapy or targeted therapy.

Treatment planning is usually carried out by a multidisciplinary team that includes a breast surgeon, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist and radiologist. By reviewing imaging and biopsy findings together, the team develops a coordinated, personalised treatment plan that supports effective care and long-term outcomes.

Local treatments focus on removing or controlling cancer within the breast and nearby lymph nodes. Surgery and radiation therapy are commonly used either alone or in combination, depending on the stage and characteristics of the cancer.

The Stages of Breast Cancer (Stage 0-IV)

Surgery is often the first step in breast cancer treatment and aims to remove the tumour while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Surgical options may include:

• Lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery): Removal of the cancerous lump with a margin of surrounding tissue, usually followed by radiation therapy.
• Mastectomy: Removal of the entire breast, which may be recommended for larger tumours, multiple areas of cancer, or based on patient preference.

To assess whether cancer has spread, surgery may also involve:

• Sentinel lymph node biopsy: Removal of a small number of key lymph nodes for testing.
• Axillary lymph node clearance: Removal of more lymph nodes when cancer involvement is confirmed.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. It is commonly recommended:

• After breast-conserving surgery: Radiation therapy is commonly recommended to reduce the risk of local recurrence.
• After mastectomy in selected cases: Such as when the tumour is large or lymph nodes are involved.

Systemic treatments work throughout the body to destroy cancer cells, reduce the risk of recurrence and treat cancer that may have spread beyond the breast. These therapies are often used alongside surgery and radiation, depending on the cancer type and stage.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells throughout the body. It may be recommended:

• Before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy): To shrink the tumour and improve surgical outcomes.
• After surgery (adjuvant therapy): To reduce the risk of cancer returning.

Hormone (Endocrine) Therapy

Hormone therapy is used for breast cancers that grow in response to hormones, such as oestrogen or progesterone receptor–positive cancers. It may be:

• Given before or after surgery: As part of the overall treatment plan.
• Continued long-term: To lower the risk of recurrence.

Targeted and Immunotherapy

These treatments focus on specific features of cancer cells or the immune system:

• Targeted therapy: Drugs designed to attack cancer cells with specific markers, such as HER2-positive breast cancer.
• Immunotherapy: Treatments that help the immune system recognise and fight cancer, used in selected cases.

Breast cancer treatment can involve several options, and the right approach depends on the type and stage of cancer as well as individual health needs. While the process may feel overwhelming, a well-coordinated treatment plan can offer strong outcomes and long-term disease control. Working closely with an experienced multidisciplinary team ensures that each step of care is guided by medical evidence and tailored to your situation.

At Bertha Woon Surgery, patients receive dedicated breast care with an emphasis on timely diagnosis and personalised treatment planning. Dr Bertha Woon, a trusted breast and general surgeon, provides clear, compassionate guidance throughout each stage of care. If you are seeking expert assessment or surgical consultation, make an appointment with us today.