Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons Serving Denver & Lone Tree, Colorado
Oncoplastic breast surgery is another term for breast conservation techniques that combine breast reconstruction techniques with tumor removal. Ultimately, our goal is that your breasts will be restored and you can avoid the breast distortion that accompanies breast cancer surgery and tumor removal.
To find out if this type of breast reconstruction surgery is right for you, please call Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery at 303-706-1100 to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons.
What Is Oncoplastic Breast Surgery?
Breast conservation techniques are the combination of cancer surgery and surgery to reconstruct the breast. After cancer surgery, a woman can sometimes be devastated by the appearance of the breast. Oncoplastic breast surgery provides immediate reconstruction techniques to rebuild breast shape at the same time as breast tissue is being removed. This requires coordination between your general surgeon and plastic surgeon.
Even lumpectomy, which is a breast-conserving procedure, can leave a considerable deformity in the breast where the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue are removed. Breast reconstruction techniques such as a breast lift or reduction can be used at the time of lumpectomy so that the breast does not appear distorted by the tumor removal.
To create improved breast shape and symmetry between the breasts at the time of tumor removal, oncoplastic breast surgery may include:
- Breast lift
- Breast reduction
- Fat grafting
These procedures are performed so that the breasts look the same. If the breast that received the lumpectomy is smaller as a result of the tumor removal, a breast lift or reduction can be performed on the other breast so that they look symmetrical. Or, a fat transfer after liposuction can be used to fill in the depression left by the lumpectomy.
Benefits of Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction
Some of the advantages of oncoplastic breast surgery include:
- Positive feelings about breast appearance following cancer surgery
- Opposite breast will also be operated on to achieve symmetry
- Tumor removal and breast cancer reconstruction surgery is combined into a single procedure
Additionally, if you are receiving radiation therapy as part of your treatment, it can be beneficial to receive oncoplastic breast surgery prior to radiation. After radiation therapy, wounds do not heal as well, so any reconstruction surgery or surgery to repair the lumpectomy deformity runs the risk of improper wound healing. By having the breasts reshaped and reconstructed prior to radiation, you may be able to avoid these issues.
If you live in Denver, Lone Tree or the surrounding areas and want to learn what your options are for breast reconstruction and oncoplastic breast surgery, please contact Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery by calling 303-706-1100 or completing the online form to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced plastic surgeons.
Will My Breast Look Different After Lumpectomy?
Your breast may look different after a lumpectomy. The extent of the change depends on several factors, including:
- The size of the tumor
- The location of the tumor
- The amount of surrounding tissue taken out during the procedure
The surgeons at Park Meadows use the latest oncoplastic techniques to reduce visual changes. They work hard to restore a natural appearance post-surgery.
Keep in mind that some research shows patients are more satisfied with the results of oncoplastic surgery than total breast reconstruction.
Bilateral Breast Reduction During Lumpectomy
It is possible to have a bilateral breast reduction during a lumpectomy. This approach can be particularly beneficial for women who have larger breasts.Â
Performing a reduction at the same time as the lumpectomy can help achieve better symmetry. It also reduces the overall size of both breasts. Some women may find these outcomes more desirable for cosmetic and physical comfort reasons.
Bilateral Breast Lift During Lumpectomy
A bilateral breast lift during a lumpectomy is another option for women looking to enhance the aesthetic outcome of their surgery. Similar to a reduction, a lift can be incorporated to improve the breasts’ appearance.Â
This combination of procedures can be particularly beneficial if the lumpectomy results in a significant change in shape or if there is pre-existing sagging. Performing a lift on both breasts ensures they are symmetrical. It can also help you maintain a more natural, youthful appearance post-surgery.
FAQs
How Is Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction Different from Traditional Breast Reconstruction?
Oncoplastic breast reconstruction differs from traditional reconstruction because it combines tumor removal and cosmetic enhancement in a single procedure.
With traditional methods, reconstruction might occur months or even years after mastectomy. However, oncoplastic surgery aims to preserve as much of the breast skin and tissue as possible at the time of cancer removal. This approach often results in more natural-looking outcomes. It can also shorten the total recovery time.
How Will Oncoplastic Surgery Affect My Cancer Treatment Plan?
At Park Meadows Cosmetic, we meticulously coordinate with oncologists to make sure your surgery seamlessly integrates with your cancer treatment plan. This approach ensures there is no delay in ongoing treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation. These therapies can typically commence soon after recovery from surgery.
How Natural Will My Breasts Look and Feel After Surgery?
Our goal is to restore your breast to a shape and size that feels right for you. We also aim for a result that looks and feels as natural as possible. Outcomes can vary based on individual factors like the type and location of the surgery and your body’s healing response.
Our skilled surgeons use advanced techniques to enhance aesthetic results. They also carefully consider the feel of the reconstructed breast.
How Soon After Diagnosis Can I Undergo Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction?
Oncoplastic breast reconstruction is generally planned to occur at the same time as the cancer removal surgery. The timing will depend on various factors, including:
- Your overall health
- The specifics of your diagnosis
- Any preoperative treatments needed
Our team works closely with you and your other providers to schedule the procedure at an optimal time that aligns with your treatment plan.
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
The duration of oncoplastic breast reconstruction surgery varies depending on the complexity of the case and the specific techniques used. Generally, the procedure takes between 2 and 4 hours. During your consultation, our surgeons will provide a more precise timeline based on your individual surgical plan.
Why Choose Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery & Aesthetics?
At Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery & Aesthetics, you will find a blend of exceptional surgical expertise and a pioneering healthcare facility right in the heart of Colorado. Our team is led by Dr. Christopher G. Williams and Dr. Jeremy Z. Williams. They are both board-certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in breast reconstruction.
We are also proud to operate Park Meadows Outpatient Surgery (PMOS). Since its opening in 2000, this facility stands as the first state-licensed, Joint Commission-accredited surgery center in Douglas County.
