Which is more effective: a lumpectomy or a mastectomy?

Depends...: If the cancer has multiple foci or "starting sites" and is > 5 cm or larger compared to the breast, or a patient cannot have radiation, then a mastectomy should be considered. Some patients may have chemotherapy before surgery, but after her biopsy in order to have a lumpectomy instead. When combined with radiation treatment a lumpectomy for the right indications has the same outcome as mastect.

Cure Rates the Same: Mastectomy offers no increased chance for cure over lumpectomy; however, mastectomy is necessary/preferred in certain situations: multicentric cancer that grows throughout the breast; women who have the hereditary (brca+)type of ca; women who cannot have radiation therapy (which must be included with lumpectomy for rx).For those that require mastectomy, reconstruction is often an excellent option.

Agree with others: I agree with my colleagues. I want to add that if you choose a lumpectomy, you must get radiation in order for the lumpectomy option to (almost) equal a mastectomy alone. Be sure you discuss your options with your oncology team (surgeon, medical & radiation). If you have addition concerns, a 2nd opinion may give another perspective.