What is Oncoplastic Breast Surgery?
Oncoplastic surgery is performed to improve the appearance of the breast following partial mastectomy or mastectomy to remove breast cancer. Various oncoplastic techniques can be used to shape the breast to reduce the effect of cancer removal on the contour and size of the breast. These techniques include rearranging nearby breast tissue, lifting or reducing breast size, preserving the skin, removing extra skin, and improving the appearance of scars, dents, or nipple distortion. Oncoplastic techniques are also used in mastectomy to improve the final cosmetic outcome.
Who Needs Oncoplastic Breast Surgery?
Oncoplastic breast surgery may be right for you if:
- You have smaller breasts, so removing any sized tumor will cause a visible change in the appearance of your breasts.
- Your breast cancer is in a visible place on the breast.
- You have very large breasts which may have more issues with radiation or with mastectomy and reconstruction.
- You have existing issues with your breasts such as sagging, and lack of symmetry that can be addressed during breast surgery to remove cancer.
If you are a candidate for lumpectomy, you may want to speak with your surgeon regarding oncoplastic lumpectomy and if it is right for you. Your surgeon will discuss the oncoplastic options for mastectomy as well.
Board-Certified Surgeon
MICHELE LEY, MD, FACS
Dr. Ley, a breast surgical oncologist in Tucson since 2006, delivers compassionate and personalized care to create tailored treatment plans based on the latest research. Specializing in surgical care for breast cancer and high-risk patients, she employs minimally invasive techniques and practices oncoplastic surgery to optimize outcomes.
More About Dr. LeyWhat to Expect
When it comes to oncoplastic breast surgery, there are various techniques available. Regardless of the technique, your surgeon will skillfully adjust the location of the nipple and areola as needed while maintaining its blood supply.
Level 1 Oncoplastic Lumpectomy: This is the simplest form of oncoplastic breast surgery, and involves aesthetic scar placement, and rearrangement of tissues near the tumor bed. During this procedure, cancer and a margin of healthy tissue are removed. Nearby tissue under the breast skin is then loosened and used to fill in gaps left behind. The scar can be hidden around the areola, or under the breast. Various incision placements can be used depending on the location of your tumor.
Level 2 Oncoplastic Lumpectomy: These are more complex ways of moving breast tissue and may involve oncoplastic reduction with a breast lift, a breast reduction, volume replacement using nearby tissue flaps, volume replacement with fat grafting, and more. These types of procedures may require a cancer surgeon and a plastic surgeon to work together to achieve the desired results.
“The level of care is excellent.”
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If you are interested in learning more about oncoplastic breast surgery and if it is right for you, please contact Tucson Breast Health Specialists in Tucson, AZ today.
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