Breast cancer surgery may involve removing a tumour while preserving as much healthy breast tissue as possible, or removing a larger portion of the breast when required. These procedures can sometimes change the shape or appearance of the breast. Oncoplasty combines cancer surgery with reconstructive techniques to address both the medical treatment of the tumour and the resulting breast shape.
The approach is not simply cosmetic surgery performed after cancer treatment. It is planned around the cancer itself, the amount of tissue that needs to be removed, and the patient's individual anatomy. In suitable cases, reconstruction may be performed at the same time as cancer surgery or considered at a later stage.
Oncoplasty is a specialised approach that brings together breast cancer surgery and reconstructive principles. When a tumour needs to be removed, the surgeon considers not only how to treat the cancer but also how the remaining breast tissue can be shaped to achieve a balanced result.
Reconstruction can involve rearranging the patient's own breast tissue after tumour removal. Depending on the extent of surgery, other reconstructive techniques may also be considered. The appropriate method varies according to the tumour, breast size and shape, amount of tissue removed, and overall treatment plan.
Traditional breast-conserving surgery focuses primarily on removing the cancer with an appropriate margin of healthy tissue. Oncoplastic techniques add reconstructive planning to the procedure.
This means the surgical plan considers the expected change in breast shape before the operation takes place. In selected patients, this approach can allow removal of the required amount of tissue while making use of nearby breast tissue to help reshape the breast.
Cancer treatment comes first: The primary objective remains appropriate removal and treatment of the cancer. Reconstruction should be planned without compromising the surgical requirements for cancer control.
The reconstruction method is individual: The technique depends on factors such as tumour position, breast size, tissue availability, previous procedures, and the amount of tissue that needs to be removed. Not every patient will require or be suitable for the same reconstructive method.
Oncoplastic reconstruction may be considered when removing a tumour is expected to create a noticeable change in breast shape. The technique can be particularly relevant when a larger portion of breast tissue needs to be removed during breast-conserving surgery.
In some cases, reconstruction may be planned during the cancer operation itself. In other situations, reconstruction may be performed separately. The timing depends on the cancer diagnosis, treatment requirements, overall health, and recommendations of the surgical team.
Recovery varies according to the cancer operation and reconstructive technique used. Patients may need wound care, medication, activity restrictions, and follow-up examinations while the surgical areas heal.
Further treatment may also be required after surgery. Depending on the cancer's characteristics, patients may receive radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted treatment, or other recommended care. The reconstructive plan needs to take these potential treatments into account.
Oncoplastic surgery brings cancer removal and breast reshaping into the same treatment plan. The approach is selected after considering the tumour's location, the amount of tissue that needs to be removed, breast anatomy, and any further cancer treatment that may be required.
Dr. Deepika Gupta evaluates these factors when planning surgery and can explain which reconstructive technique may be appropriate for the individual patient. The aim is to ensure that reconstruction is planned alongside the medical requirements of cancer treatment.
What is oncoplasty reconstruction surgery?
Oncoplasty combines breast cancer surgery with reconstructive techniques. The aim is to remove the cancer appropriately while also considering the shape and appearance of the breast after tissue removal.
Is oncoplasty suitable for every breast cancer patient?
No. Suitability depends on factors such as tumour location and size, the amount of tissue that needs to be removed, breast anatomy, previous treatment, and the overall cancer treatment plan.
Can reconstruction be done during breast cancer surgery?
In selected cases, reconstructive techniques can be performed during the same operation. In other situations, reconstruction may be planned separately depending on the patient's treatment requirements.
CTA:
If breast cancer surgery may affect breast shape, an oncoplastic consultation can help clarify the reconstructive possibilities alongside the cancer treatment plan. Dr. Deepika Gupta provides specialist guidance for Oncoplasty Reconstruction Surgery in Shadipur, with the approach tailored to the patient's diagnosis and surgical needs. Book an appointment to discuss your reports and treatment options.
