New Technique Preserves Breast After Cancer

April 6, 2007
A new procedure referred to as oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery combines breast reconstruction and breast cancer surgery to help women with cancer avoid the devastation that often comes with a mastectomy.

While the procedure has been available for years, it's just starting to increase in popularity in the U.S., mostly because of new advances in reconstruction procedures and radiation therapy.

Traditional breast conserving surgeries focus largely on removing the tumor, which usually results in an undesirable aesthetic appearance that may later be corrected through reconstructive plastic surgery.

However, oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery focuses on two things: getting rid of the cancer while achieving an optimal cosmetic result. During this procedure, breast cancer surgeons and plastic surgeons work side by side to remove the diseased tissue and immediately reshape the breast utilizing the patient's existing tissue.

“Breast cancer surgeons are typically faced with two conflicting issues. Their primary goal is to remove as much tissue as possible for effective cancer control, while at the same time trying to preserve breast tissue to prevent a poor aesthetic outcome,” said Dr. Albert Losken, a plastic surgeon.

“By working together as a team, we are able to address these issues simultaneously maximizing both the cancer and cosmetic outcomes.”

Considering a breast procedure? Please click here to schedule a consultation with a trusted board certified plastic surgeon near you.

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