A woman’s breast is unique to her body anatomy. Many women diagnosed with breast cancer do not want their entire breast removed. These women choose to have a lumpectomy or removal of a portion of the breast that has the cancer. The breast can look distorted and asymmetric to the contralateral breast after a lumpectomy. Oncoplastic breast reduction is a breast reconstruction technique that rearranges the breast tissue that is left to create a naturally appearing, lifted breast and eliminate the deformity created by the lumpectomy surgery. At the same time, the contralateral breast is reduced or lifted to improve the symmetry on both sides. This surgery is performed immediately after the breast surgeon completes the lumpectomy and the lymph node biopsy. (See before and after photos of oncoplastic breast reduction surgery)
Who is the ideal candidate for Oncoplastic breast reduction?
Ideal candidates are patients with larger breasts. Ideal candidates are also non-smoker, without significant medical problems. If you do smoke/vape or use any nicotine product, you need to stop using for at least 2 months prior to surgery and remain nicotine free for 3 months after surgery to optimize healing. Otherwise, your risk of skin and tissue necrosis and open wound is extremely high.
Oncoplastic Breast Reduction Recovery?
The surgery is done under general anesthesia. Usually an overnight stay in the hospital is recommended. A drain is placed in each breast after surgery and usually will be removed in the office in 1-2 weeks. A soft elastic bra is worn at all times for 4-6 weeks. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are not recommended until at least 6 weeks after surgery. Walking is encouraged. Radiation treatment can usually be started at the earliest 6 weeks after surgery to allow complete healing, otherwise chronic open wounds can occur. (See before and after photos of oncoplastic breast reduction surgery)