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Oncoplastic Breast Surgery

Oncoplastic surgery combines the latest cosmetic surgery techniques with breast surgical oncology. When a large lumpectomy is required that will leave the breast distorted, the remaining tissue is sculpted to realign the nipple and areola and restore a natural appearance to the breast shape. The opposing breast might also be modified to create symmetry.

Oncoplastic breast surgery includes:

  • Resection of the tumor with immediate reconstruction of the defect using plastic surgical techniques.
  • Excision of the cancer with adequately wide free margin to achieve locoregional control.
  • Immediate remodeling of the defect to improve the cosmetic results.

 

Oncoplastic breast surgery is considered a good option for patients who are candidates for breast conserving therapy or lumpectomy, also for breast reduction or mastopexy (breast lift) candidates.

How is Oncoplastic Breast Surgery Different from Traditional Lumpectomy?

Traditional lumpectomy removes the cancer and leaves a cavity in the breast which fills with fluid that usually is absorbed over time. As the fluid absorbs and the area heals, there may be indentation or puckering of skin at the site. With oncoplastic surgery, the breast tissue is used to fill the cavity so that there is less chance of deformity as the breast heals. With oncoplastic surgery:

  • The tumor is widely excised for optimal cancer control
  • The breast tissue is reshaped
  • The nipple is repositioned if needed
  • The other healthy breast can be reshaped so that both breasts match

Benefits of Oncoplastic Breast Surgery

Oncoplastic breast cancer surgery has a number of other benefits:

  • It offers women with larger tumors the option of breast-conserving surgery. Because more tissue can be removed using oncoplastic techniques, mastectomy may be avoided for some women.
  • Usually the recovery of Oncoplastic is faster and far less painful than the traditional reconstructive surgeries.
  • Oncoplastic surgery allows wider and safer excision.
  • Besides a better safety margin achievement through a better local control.
  • It reduces the risk of defect formation.
  • Yields to better cosmetic results.
  • Performance of procedures that might be required beside tumor excision as breast augmentation, breast reduction, or breast lift.