Oncoplastic Reduction

 

An Oncoplastic Reduction combines the latest plastic surgery techniques with breast surgical oncology. When a sizable lumpectomy is required that will leave the breast misshapen, the remaining tissue is sculpted to align the nipple and areola and restore a natural appearance to the breast shape. The opposing breast will also be modified or reduced for symmetry.

 

This is a good option for patients who are candidates for breast conservation therapy or lumpectomy, and are also candidates for breast reduction or mastopexy (breast lift).

 

How is oncoplastic surgery performed?

 

At the time of your lumpectomy and lymph node biopsy with your breast surgeon, the plastic surgeon will perform a bilateral breast reduction or mastopexy, removing breast tissue from the cancerous breast as well as modifying the contralateral normal breast. This generally involves an incision around the nipple and areola, a vertical incision from the nipple to the lower fold of the breast, and sometimes a horizontal incision hidden in the fold of the breast if breast size is large.

 

These surgeries are generally one stage procedures. Patients may be outpatient or possibly require one night in the hospital. Recovery time is 3-4 weeks, and most people are able to return to work in that time period.