As the name suggests (“onco” for oncology, the branch of medicine that deals with cancer, and “plastic” for plastic surgery), oncoplastic breast combines the principles of breast cancer surgery and plastic surgery to immediately reshape the remaining breast tissue and achieve a more satisfying breast appearance following breast conserving surgery. Integrating oncoplastic techniques into breast conserving surgery can allow wider excision, expanding the limits of breast conservation in some cases, while preventing some of the cosmetic deformities. The result is “seamless” specialist breast cancer surgery in which removal of the cancer is merged with reconstruction. This requires very careful planning, and the delicate balancing of oncological needs with aesthetic aims.
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to recreate a breast’s shape and contour after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. The goal of breast reconstruction is to provide symmetry and a natural-appearing breast. Breast reconstruction can be done at the time of mastectomy or after a mastectomy. Determining if and when to begin reconstruction is an individual decision, made by the patient and her care team, based on a number of factors. Various breast reconstruction techniques are available, all of which fall into two basic categories:
- Implant-based reconstruction, which uses a silicone implant with or without a tissue expander
- Autologous reconstruction, which uses the patient’s own tissue in the form of a flap or graft
Oncoplastic breast reconstruction is a philosophy that requires vision, passion, knowledge of anatomy, and appreciation and understanding of aesthetics, symmetry and breast function. Our team strives to provide state-of-the-art breast health care to all women who want to feel and look good after surgery without compromising oncological safety.
