Oncoplastic surgery is recommended in specific situations for breast cancer patients. It is typically considered when breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) is a viable treatment option, and the goal is to remove the cancerous tissue while preserving the breast’s appearance and shape. Here are common scenarios in which oncoplastic surgery may be recommended:
- Larger Tumors: Oncoplastic surgery is often recommended when the tumor size is relatively large compared to the breast size. In such cases, reshaping the breast after tumor removal can help maintain breast symmetry and achieve better cosmetic results.
- Tumors Located in Challenging Areas: When the breast cancer is located in a challenging or cosmetically sensitive area of the breast, such as near the nipple or areola, oncoplastic surgery can help improve the appearance of the breast after tumor removal.
- Breast Size Discrepancy: Oncoplastic techniques can be used to address breast size discrepancies that may result from tumor removal. This helps maintain breast symmetry.
- Desire for Cosmetic Improvement: Some women choose oncoplastic surgery because they desire not only cancer removal but also cosmetic improvement. This is particularly relevant for women who wish to maintain the appearance of their breasts as much as possible.
- Multifocal or Multicentric Tumors: In cases where there are multiple tumor sites within the breast (multifocal or multicentric tumors), oncoplastic techniques may be used to remove the tumors while preserving the breast’s appearance.
- Patient Preference: Oncoplastic surgery may be recommended if the patient expresses a strong preference for breast conservation and is willing to undergo additional surgical procedures to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing outcome.
It’s important to note that not all breast cancer patients are candidates for oncoplastic surgery. The suitability for oncoplastic surgery depends on factors such as tumor size, location, breast anatomy, and the patient’s individual goals and preferences. The decision to pursue oncoplastic surgery is typically made collaboratively between the patient and a team of breast surgeons and plastic surgeons who have expertise in oncoplastic techniques.
The primary goal of oncoplastic surgery is to achieve complete tumor removal (negative margins) while preserving or improving the cosmetic appearance of the breast. The specific oncoplastic techniques used may vary based on the patient’s unique circumstances and the extent of tissue removal required.
For further guidance, consult Dr. Rajinder Kaur Saggu, one of the top Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon in Delhi