Oncoplastic surgery combines cancer surgery with reconstructive techniques to improve the appearance of the breast after removing cancerous tissue. Breast surgery for cancer can also help diagnose or improve the look of the breast. For example, surgery can check for cancer spread or rebuild the breast after cancer treatment.
What is Oncoplastic Breast Surgery?
Oncoplastic breast surgery is a specialized surgery for breast cancer. It can combine tumor removal with revision surgery to achieve the best aesthetic results and ensure the successful removal of all cancerous tissue. This procedure addresses the medical need to remove cancer from the psychological and emotional well-being of the patient while preserving as much as possible the natural look and feel of the breast.
Benefits of oncoplastic breast surgery
1. Improved cosmetic outcomes
One of the major advantages of oncoplastic surgery is improved cosmetic results. Traditional breast cancer surgery, such as a lumpectomy or mastectomy, often leaves a large scar or noticeable changes in breast size and shape Oncoplastic techniques help reduce these issues, allowing patients to carry them their natural and perfect complexion.
2. Increased psychological well-being
The appearance of the breast after surgery can greatly affect a patient’s self-esteem and emotional health. Combining cancer removal with reconstructive procedures, oncoplastic surgery helps patients feel more confident and comfortable with their bodies after treatment
3. Better tumor control
Oncoplastic surgery generally requires extensive tumor removal with clear margins which reduces the risk of cancer recurrence. Surgeons can remove large nodules without compromising the appearance of the breast, which is necessary to remove all cancer cells.
Techniques in oncoplastic breast surgery
Oncoplastic breast surgery includes procedures tailored to the specific needs of the disease and tumor type Common procedures include:
1. Volume Displacement Method
These procedures involve reconstructing the remaining breast tissue after tumor removal to repair the defect. This procedure is suitable for patients with moderate to large breasts. The methods used include:
- Curative Mammoplasty: Combining a lumpectomy with a breast reduction or lift removes both lumps and excess breast tissue for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance
- Round Section Method: Used for lumps near the breast, this procedure removes the lump and then reshapes the surrounding tissue to maintain its natural shape.
2. Volume Replacement Techniques
Volume adjustment techniques are used when a large amount of breast tissue has been removed, and the lost volume must be adjusted. These techniques often involve the use of tissue from another part of the body, e.g.
- Latissimus Dorsi Flap: Uses tissue from the upper back to replace loss of voice from the breast.
- DIEP Flap: Uses abdominal fat and skin to reconstruct the breast, giving it a natural appearance.
Role in Modern Breast Cancer Treatment
1. Individualized treatment plan
Every breast cancer is unique, and oncoplastic surgery allows for a highly individualized treatment plan. Based on tumor size, location, and the size and shape of the patient’s breasts, surgeons can customize their approach for the best and most aesthetically pleasing cancer prevention.
2. Personal care
Combining surgery techniques to help with breast cancer treatment, oncoplastic surgery looks at both the physical and emotional aspects of getting better. This approach gives thorough care to support your overall well-being.
3. Improvements in surgery
Oncoplastic surgery keeps getting better with new techniques and tools that make treatments more accurate and efficient. This means surgeons can make more complex changes with fewer problems, making patients happier with the results.
4. Many ways to help
Oncoplastic breast surgery involves a team of experts, including a cancer surgeon, a plastic surgeon, a radiologist, and a pathologist. This team approach looks at everything from diagnosing to recovering from surgery and beyond.
Patient Eligibility and Considerations
Not all breast cancer patients are candidates for oncoplastic surgery. Factors such as the size and location of the tumor, the patient’s breast size and shape, and overall health must be considered. A thorough evaluation by a team of specialists is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Conclusion
Breast oncoplasty represents a significant advancement in the treatment of breast cancer, offering a blend of effective tumor removal and aesthetic enhancement. This approach not only improves cosmetic outcomes but also supports the psychological and emotional well-being of patients. By incorporating oncoplastic techniques into breast cancer treatment plans, clinicians can provide more comprehensive and personalized care, ultimately leading to better overall outcomes. As surgical techniques and technologies continue to advance, the role of oncoplastic breast surgery in breast cancer treatment is likely to grow, offering new hope and improved quality of life for countless patients.
As the editor of the blog, She curate insightful content that sparks curiosity and fosters learning. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, she strive to bring diverse perspectives and engaging narratives to readers, ensuring every piece informs, inspires, and enriches.
