What Is Breast Cancer?
reast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women.
While the average 5-year survival rate after treatment is relatively high—around 76%
the treatment journey can still be mentally and physically challenging.
In recent years, breast cancer has been increasingly diagnosed in unmarried women, largely due to lower birth rates.
That’s why regular self-examinations and consistent long-term health screenings are essential for early detection and prevention.
The size and characteristics of the tumor (T:Tumor)
+ The extent of spread to nearby lymph nodes (N:Node)
+ Whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body (M:Metastasis)
Based on these, breast cancer is typically categorized from Stage 1 to Stage 4.
The earlier it is detected, the better the treatment outcome and prognosis.
Stage 1
Survival Rate
Approx 96%
Tumor is about 1–2 cm in size,
with no spread to lymph nodes.
Stage 2
Survival Rate
Approx 91%
Tumor is 2–5 cm, with possible lymph node involvement,
or larger than 5 cm without lymph node spread.
Stage 3
Survival Rate
Approx 75%
Tumor is larger than 5 cm, has invaded nearby tissue,
and has spread to lymph nodes.
It may be visible or felt as a lump.
Stage 4
Survival Rate
Approx 34%
Over 5 cm with metastasis to lungs,
liver, or bones.
Is Every Breast Lump Breast Cancer?
Not necessarily. In fact, about 80% of breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous) tumors.
Visit a nearby breast specialist clinic in Ulsan for a detailed evaluation
Complete cure possible with a simple surgery.
X-ray and ultrasound examinations are recommended.
Can I Have Surgery After Breast Augmentation?
Absolutely. Many patients who have had previous breast surgeries or implants often ask this question.
At Privee Breast Clinic, we have successfully performed surgeries on such cases without a single complication,
thanks to our board-certified surgeon’s extensive experience and surgical expertise.
Other hospitals also frequently refer these cases to us,
and we approach each one with great care and responsibility—promising meticulous and safe procedures every time.
Types of Breast Cancer
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma
This type of breast cancer originates in the cells that line the milk ducts and invades beyond the duct wall (basement membrane) into surrounding breast tissue. It is the most common form of invasive breast cancer, accounting for about 80% of all invasive cases.
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma
Inflammatory breast cancer originates from cells involved in inflammation and accounts for approximately 5–10% of all invasive breast cancers.
Compared to invasive ductal carcinoma, it has a higher reported frequency of being multifocal or affecting both breasts. However, its overall prognosis is considered similar to that of invasive ductal carcinoma.
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
This is a Stage 0 (non-invasive) breast cancer that originates in the cells lining the lobules (milk-producing glands) of the breast but does not invade the basement membrane. Because it doesn’t spread beyond the lobules, LCIS itself is not considered a true cancer but rather a marker of increased risk for developing invasive breast cancer in the future. LCIS is often not visible on imaging tests such as mammograms or ultrasounds, and is usually discovered incidentally during surgery or biopsy for another reason.
Lobular Carcinoma In Situ
All Cases Are Classified as Stage 4 Breast Cancer
Sarcoma of the Breast (Stromal-Origin Breast Cancer)
This rare type of breast cancer originates from the stromal (connective) tissue of the breast rather than the glandular tissue (ducts or lobules). The stroma includes fat, connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic vessels.
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