Breast Conserving Therapy versus Mastectomy in Young Women: Oncologic and Quality of Life Outcomes

Abstract Purpose of Review This review is intended to explore unique considerations for breast conservation versus mastectomy for management of unilateral breast cancer in young patients. Recent Findings There is limited recent work directly comparing mastectomy and breast conserving therapy for young women. Historical work establishes oncologic equivalence of the two surgical approaches, and work within the last 10 years suggests minimal overall difference in quality of life. Summary There are multiple patient specific factors, including patient preference and candidacy for adjuvant therapies, that can inform the best surgical management for those young patients diagnosed with unilateral breast cancer. Additionally, while the literature does not support one approach being definitively superior either in terms of oncologic benefit or quality of life, there are multiple patient-level factors that should be incorporated into an informed discussion with a young person diagnosed with breast cancer to help guide surgical treatment approach.