A WLE can only be used for lesions up to 4 cm in diameter, as removal of any larger lesions could leave a visibly dented area in the breast. The extent of excision is variable, ranging from lumpectomy to quadrantectomy.
The use of a WLE (which stands for Wide Local Excision) is limited by its size restriction, which is 4 cm.  Larger lesions may leave a visible dent in the breast after removal. The extent of excision can vary from a lumpectomy to a quadrantectomy depending on the lesion's size and location.