Summary
A lumpectomy is the removal of a portion of a breast, including the tumor. This treatment option is typically a component of Breast Conservation Therapy, which includes radiation therapy after lumpectomy. While a lumpectomy is less invasive than a mastectomy, it often creates an indentation or contour abnormality in the breast. This can be worsened by the radiation therapy that often follows.
Oncoplastic closure redistributes existing breast tissue and skin to improve breast contour. It works well for patients with larger breasts with enough tissue to reposition as needed. The procedure generally takes place at the time of the lumpectomy, before radiation therapy begins, as success rates are higher for patients who choose this timing.
Procedure Details:
- A breast surgeon and plastic surgeon work together to estimate how much tissue will be removed during the lumpectomy to plan incision placement and technique
- Surgeons often hide incisions around the areola or in the fold beneath the breast
- A plastic surgeon elevates and mobilizes nearby breast tissue and skin after lumpectomy to fill the contour disruption
- The breast tissue and skin are closed
Risks & Benefits
Lumpectomy may change the size of your breast, which may affect breast symmetry. Surgery on the opposite breast can address unevenness. Radiation after lumpectomy and oncoplastic closure will still change the shape of the breast and may tighten the skin or reduce breast volume. You may elect to address this in the future.
Oncoplastic closure gives patients who choose BCT an opportunity to maintain their breast shape and correct contour abnormalities.