Oncoplastic surgery combines the latest plastic surgery techniques with breast surgical oncology. When a large lumpectomy is required that may leave the breast distorted, the remaining tissue is sculpted to realign the nipple and areola and restore a natural curve to the breast shape. The opposite breast may be adjusted to improve symmetry.
How is oncoplastic surgery performed?
When performing your lumpectomy, the surgeon will remove the tumour and the lymph nodes and aim to re-create a natural curve of the breast. The nipple may be moved to create a more natural appearance and prevent distortion. To adjust for symmetry the surgeon may also perform a procedure on the other breast. This may involve an incision around the nipple and areola, a vertical incision from the nipple to the lower fold of the breast, and a horizontal incision in the fold under the breast.
What are the benefits of having oncoplastic surgery at the time of lumpectomy?
- Allows for a larger amount of tissue to be removed, which is helpful is cases where the tumor is larger or when there is a concern about the ability to get negative margins
- Performing a procedure on the other breast may improves symmetry
- Surgery is completed prior to radiation, so you avoid the risks of wound-healing problems that can occur with a post-radiation surgery
- Relief of symptoms of large breasts, if this was a problem before surgery
These surgeries generally do not involve drains. They may be outpatient or overnight in the hospital. Recovery time is six weeks, but most people usually feel better and are able to return to work in two to three weeks.