WHat is an Oncologist Breast Surgeon?
When someone is diagnosed with breast cancer, they are likely to meet a number of specialists along the way, including oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons. One important specialist who plays a key role is the oncoplastic breast surgeon. But what exactly does this specialist do, and how does their role differ from that of a traditional plastic surgeon?
What Does an Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon Do?
An oncoplastic breast surgeon is a specialist who combines breast cancer surgery with the techniques of plastic surgery. Their primary goal is to remove cancerous tissue while also aiming to preserve or restore the natural appearance of the breast. In essence, they serve as both a cancer surgeon and a plastic surgeon, balancing the need to treat the cancer effectively with the desire to maintain or enhance the aesthetic look of the breast.
This is particularly important in breast-conserving surgeries, such as lumpectomies, where removing a tumour can sometimes lead to uneven or unsightly changes in breast shape. The oncoplastic breast surgeon uses advanced plastic surgery techniques to reshape the breast tissue, reposition the nipple, or even use tissue from other parts of the body to help restore a more natural breast contour.
The Role of Plastic Surgery in Cancer Treatment
A traditional plastic surgeon is primarily focused on aesthetic or reconstructive surgery, performing procedures such as facelifts, breast augmentations, and tummy tucks. However, in the context of breast cancer, plastic surgery becomes an essential part of recovery. This is where an oncoplastic breast surgeon’s training in both plastic surgery and oncologic procedures proves invaluable, as they can carry out reconstructive surgeries immediately after the cancerous tissue is removed, often in the same operation. This reduces the need for multiple surgeries and also provides better psychological and emotional support for patients.
Why Choose an Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon?
- Holistic Care: Patients benefit from both the removal of cancerous tissue and breast reconstruction, all under the care of one expert. This streamlines the treatment process and ensures continuity of care.
- Better Aesthetic Results: Oncoplastic breast surgeons are skilled in plastic surgery techniques, which means that patients are more likely to maintain a natural breast shape and symmetry after surgery.
- Emotional Well-being: Having surgery that preserves the appearance of the breast can greatly help with emotional recovery, reducing feelings of loss or trauma that might otherwise accompany breast cancer surgery.
- Fewer Operations: Many patients can avoid having separate reconstructive surgeries at a later stage, as both cancer removal and breast reconstruction can often be carried out in a single procedure.
An oncoplastic breast surgeon is not just a cancer surgeon; they are a specialist who combines the best of oncology and plastic surgery. By integrating these two fields, they offer a treatment approach that not only targets cancer but also aims to maintain or restore the natural shape and appearance of the breast. This dual expertise ensures that patients can survive cancer while also feeling confident in their post-surgery appearance.
If you or someone you know is facing breast cancer surgery, seeking advice from an oncoplastic breast surgeon might be the best choice. This approach can provide a more comprehensive and supportive treatment journey, combining life-saving care with the benefits of plastic surgery.
