Oncoplastic Surgery
Achieving the Best Aesthetic Outcomes in Breast Cancer Treatment
How Oncoplastic Surgery Can Enhance Your Recovery and Provide Natural-Looking Results
Breast cancer surgery is a critical part of the treatment process, and selecting the right surgical approach can help achieve both optimal cancer care and cosmetic outcomes. Oncoplastic surgery is a revolutionary technique that blends traditional cancer surgery with plastic surgery principles, allowing for the effective removal of cancer while also preserving or improving the appearance of the breast.
Expert Insights from Barry Rosen, MD FACS, Senior Medical Advisor for Learn Look Locate
“An exciting new development in breast cancer surgery is the application of oncoplastic surgery. This approach combines the principles of plastic surgery with cancer treatment, achieving the best aesthetic results without compromising the effectiveness of the procedure.” – Barry Rosen, MD, FACS, Senior Medical Advisor for Learn Look Locate
In this guide, you’ll gain valuable insights into oncoplastic surgery, its benefits, and how it compares to other breast cancer surgeries. You will also discover how oncoplastic surgery can help you regain confidence, improve aesthetic outcomes, and contribute to a smoother recovery process.
What is Oncoplastic Surgery?
Oncoplastic surgery is an advanced surgical approach that integrates cancer treatment with aesthetic goals. It is designed to not only remove the tumor but also to preserve or enhance the natural appearance of the breast. By combining the expertise of oncologists and plastic surgeons, this approach aims to ensure that breast cancer patients can achieve the best possible cosmetic results while receiving effective cancer care.
This method involves using plastic surgery techniques to reshape and restore the breast, improving the aesthetic outcome after a lumpectomy or mastectomy. The goal of oncoplastic surgery is to help patients feel more like themselves after surgery by ensuring their breasts look and feel natural, offering both physical and emotional benefits.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for Oncoplastic Surgery?
If you’re facing breast cancer surgery, oncoplastic surgery might be the right choice if you:
- Have smaller breasts that may be more noticeably affected by the removal of a tumor.
- Need 20% to 50% of your breast tissue removed and have mid- or larger-sized breasts.
- Have cancer located in a visible area, such as near the nipple or higher on the chest wall.
- Experience issues with your breasts, such as asymmetry, sagging, or an overly large size.
- Have undergone chemotherapy to shrink the tumor, making it suitable for a lumpectomy.
However, oncoplastic surgery may not be suitable for patients with inflammatory breast cancer, widespread tumors, or multiple tumors. Your surgeon will assess your unique case to determine whether oncoplastic surgery is appropriate.
Enhanced Aesthetic Results
The improved cosmetic outcome is the primary benefit of oncoplastic surgery. This technique allows for natural-looking breast reconstruction, enhancing your appearance and confidence post-surgery.
Reduced Risk of Re-excision
Oncoplastic techniques can help minimize the need for further surgeries, as they aim to achieve clean surgical margins during the initial procedure.
Low Complication Rates
By incorporating plastic surgery principles, the risk of complications such as infection or poor healing is lower compared to traditional breast cancer surgeries.
No Delay in Cancer Treatment
Oncoplastic surgery does not interfere with the scheduled radiation, chemotherapy treatments, or adjuvant therapy (treatment given after a primary treatment to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and improve the original therapy’s effectiveness). The cancer care timeline remains intact, allowing you to proceed with your treatment without delays.
Cost-Effective
By incorporating plastic surgery principles, the risk of complications such as infection or poor healing is lower compared to traditional breast cancer surgeries.
Traditional Breast Cancer Surgery vs. Oncoplastic Surgery
While traditional breast cancer surgeries like lumpectomy and mastectomy have been the standard, the inclusion of oncoplastic techniques brings a more personalized approach to care.
Lumpectomy
A breast-conserving surgery where only the tumor and surrounding tissue are removed. Radiation therapy may follow to target the remaining cancer cells.
Mastectomy
Involves the removal of the entire breast. Variations of mastectomy include skin-sparing, nipple-sparing, or simple mastectomy, depending on the patient’s needs.
Oncoplastic Surgery
Incorporates cancer surgery (lumpectomy or mastectomy) with plastic surgery techniques for an improved cosmetic outcome. This method helps ensure the final appearance of the breast meets your aesthetic goals, whether you're opting for implants, autologous tissue flaps, or aesthetic flat closure.
Recovery and Considerations for Oncoplastic Surgery
Surgical Time and Recovery
The procedure typically lasts between 3 to 4 hours, and most patients can go home the same day. Full recovery takes about 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the extent of the surgery and reconstruction.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy usually begins 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, depending on individual recovery.
Cosmetic Results
Oncoplastic surgery is specifically designed to minimize deformity and asymmetry. By using advanced plastic surgery techniques, you are more likely to have a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing result than with traditional methods.
Oncoplastic Surgery FAQs
What is the recovery time for oncoplastic surgery?
Oncoplastic surgery typically requires 3 to 4 weeks for recovery. Most patients go home the same day, with radiation therapy starting around 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery.
Will my breast look deformed after a lumpectomy?
It is possible to experience some asymmetry or deformed breast tissue after a standard lumpectomy. However, oncoplastic surgery works to minimize this risk by reshaping the breast during the procedure.
Is oncoplastic surgery safe?
Research shows that oncoplastic lumpectomy is as safe as traditional lumpectomy or mastectomy, with the added benefit of improved cosmetic results.
How is the space filled after a lumpectomy?
Space left by the removed tissue is typically filled with local tissue flaps or tissue from the back (latissimus dorsi flap) or other areas, depending on the procedure.
Is oncoplastic surgery covered by insurance?
Most insurance providers cover oncoplastic surgery as part of cancer treatment. Always check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for your specific situation.
About the Expert
Meet Dr. Barry Rosen, MD, FACS
Dr. Barry Rosen is a nationally recognized breast cancer surgeon with over 25 years of experience. As a leading expert in oncoplastic surgery, Dr. Rosen has dedicated his career to advancing breast cancer treatment while ensuring patients achieve optimal aesthetic outcomes. He serves as the Senior Medical Advisor for Learn Look Locate, where he continues to share his expertise with the breast cancer community.
Learn More About Your Breast Cancer Surgery Options
At Learn Look Locate, we are committed to empowering breast cancer patients by providing comprehensive information about oncoplastic surgery and other surgical options. Through expert insights, videos, patient stories, and the latest research, we help you make informed decisions about your care.
We invite you to explore our educational resources and join us in our mission to support breast cancer survivors as they navigate their treatment journey toward healing, self-acceptance, and renewed confidence.
