Oncoplastic breast surgery combines breast cancer removal with plastic surgery techniques in the same operation. The goal is to remove the cancer completely while preserving or restoring a natural breast shape. It allows some women to have breast-conserving surgery even with larger tumours and reduces deformity after lumpectomy.
Why Is It Done?
- To remove cancer with clear margins
- To avoid dents or distortion after lumpectomy
- To allow breast conservation for larger tumours
- To improve symmetry between both breasts
- To support confidence and quality of life
Types of Oncoplastic Techniques
Volume displacement
Remaining breast tissue is rearranged to fill the space left by the tumour. Often combined with a breast lift or reduction pattern.
Volume replacement
Tissue from nearby areas, such as the side of the chest, is moved to fill the gap.
Symmetry surgery
The other breast may be lifted or reduced to match.
Who May Benefit?
- Women with medium to large tumours relative to breast size
- Tumours in areas where a lumpectomy would distort shape
- Women with larger or drooping breasts
- Those who want to keep their breast with good appearance
Who May Not Be Suitable?
- Very large or multiple tumours needing mastectomy
- Women who cannot have radiation
- Certain health conditions affecting healing
Is It Safe From a Cancer Point of View?
Yes. Oncoplastic surgery follows the same cancer principles as standard surgery. It often allows wider margins because the defect is reconstructed. Radiation usually follows, as with standard lumpectomy.
Recovery
- Hospital stay of one to two days in many cases
- Supportive bra for several weeks
- Return to light activity within one to two weeks
- Radiation usually begins after healing
Possible Risks
- Wound healing problems
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Asymmetry needing further adjustment
- Fat necrosis, which feels like a lump but is not cancer
Key Takeaways
- Oncoplastic surgery combines cancer and plastic techniques.
- It helps preserve natural breast shape.
- It may allow conservation of larger tumours.
- Symmetry surgery on the other breast is possible.
- Cancer safety remains the priority.
Final Thoughts
Oncoplastic surgery reflects a whole-person approach to breast cancer care. It treats the cancer while caring for how you feel about your body afterward. For breast cancer and oncoplastic surgery assessment, you can consult Dr. Varadharajan, a surgical oncologist in Chennai.
