Oncoplastic Breast Surgery

Undergoing treatment for breast cancer is a lot. Breasts are a symbol of femininity, sexuality, of feeling whole. Where each person falls on that spectrum varies widely and where you are today may be very different from how you feel 6 months or 6 years from now. It can be a relief to know you have options to help you look and feel your best after breast cancer surgery. Dr. Lindsey Webb is a board-certified plastic surgeon and has been performing breast reconstruction and oncoplastic breast surgery with the breast surgeons in Atlanta for years and her calm and supportive demeanor will help alleviate some anxiety as she answers your questions.

Oncoplastic breast surgery is a technique that combines plastic surgery with breast surgical oncology to sculpt and restore the normal shape of the remaining breast after removing a mass or lumpectomy. Oncoplastic surgery also includes correction of asymmetry in size or shape between the breasts so a breast lift or reduction may be performed on the opposite breast during the same procedure. In one stage, the breast cancer is removed by the breast surgeon and the remaining breast tissue is reshaped to minimize areas of depression or deformity so you retain a natural breast profile.
Traditional breast cancer surgery can result in scar depression, size differences and shape changes that are hard to conceal in a regular bra. Post-surgical radiation therapy can highlight asymmetry even more. Oncoplasty addresses the significant impact this can have on body image and self-esteem by removing cancer cells as completely as other types of breast cancer surgery while achieving the best appearance possible. You can be confident about both your treatment and how you’ll look after it’s completed.

Many women can benefit from oncoplastic surgery. Oncoplasty most often is performed on women who undergo a lumpectomy, also known as a partial mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery, at the same surgery and before they undergo radiation therapy. Women who need a full mastectomy or complete removal of the breast have other reconstructive options that can restore an attractive shape and appearance.

While oncoplasty can be used with a range of breast types, women with smaller, single tumors and larger breasts are the best candidates. Although the procedure can sometimes be performed on patients with smaller breasts, women with small breasts or those who have had more than one lumpectomy may not be eligible for oncoplasty. The location of your tumor also may play a role in determining whether oncoplastic surgery is right for you.

Your skilled surgeon, Dr. Lindsey Webb, will explain all your options and make sure you fully understand them so you can choose the best treatment for your individual needs.

While fighting breast cancer and regaining health is your top priority, changes to your appearance after breast cancer surgery can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. Oncoplastic surgery addresses the physical, emotional and psychological aspects of breast cancer surgery with benefits that include:

Complete cancer removal with the best possible cosmetic outcome
Once the breast surgeon removes the tumor, Dr. Webb will restructure the breast and even out the size and adjust the nipple and areola position so you wake up with natural-looking breasts. Because even larger tumors can be removed while preserving your breast, oncoplasty offers an option for women who might otherwise have needed a mastectomy. Additionally, radiation therapy, if you need it, can lead to indentations or distortions from lumpectomy more difficult to correct later. Oncoplasty completes your breast reconstruction before radiation therapy begins.

Involves one surgery with a shorter recovery time
Oncoplastic surgery combines the removal of your tumor with immediate reconstruction using your own, remaining breast tissue, all in one surgery. Often, it’s done as an outpatient procedure, so you go home the same day and have an easier, shorter recovery time.

The non-cancerous breast can be reshaped at the same time so your breasts are symmetrical
Because tissue is removed during cancer surgery, your breast becomes smaller. This can result in your breasts being different sizes or shapes. During oncoplastic surgery, you can choose to have your non-cancerous breast reduced and lifted at the same time, so both breasts look even and natural.Dr. Lindsey Webb balances excellent surgical technique and the most appropriate treatments options with compassionate, whole-person care. You can feel confident that Webb Plastic Surgery’s entire team has a wealth of knowledge, in-depth experience and a sincere empathy for the physical and emotional needs of women diagnosed with breast cancer.