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 Is An Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon?
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.
Unlike a general breast surgeon or cosmetic plastic surgeon, an oncoplastic breast surgeon has additional training in reconstructive techniques that can be used during or after cancer treatment.
What Is Oncoplastic Breast Surgery?
Oncoplastic breast surgery combines cancer removal with reconstructive surgery techniques to achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome.
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.
Depending on the patient’s needs, oncoplastic breast surgery may involve:
- reshaping remaining breast tissue
- repositioning the nipple
- reducing or lifting the breast
- using tissue from another area of the body
- performing balancing surgery on the opposite breast
What Procedures Does An Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon Perform?
An oncoplastic breast surgeon may perform a range of cancer removal and cosmetic procedures, including:
- Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy)
- Therapeutic mammoplasty (breast reduction)
- Breast reconstruction surgery
- Mastectomy (removal of one or both breasts)
- Breast asymmetry surgery
- Nipple reconstruction in selected cases
The exact treatment depends on the size and location of the cancer, breast size, and the patient’s personal goals.
What Happens During Oncoplastic Breast Surgery?
While every patient is different, treatment usually follows these stages:
- Initial consultation and diagnosis
- Treatment planning
- Cancer removal surgery
- Breast reshaping or reconstruction
- Recovery and follow-up care
Your surgeon will explain the most appropriate options based on your diagnosis and treatment goals.
When Would You Need An Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon?
Not every breast cancer patient requires oncoplastic surgery, but many can benefit from the additional reconstructive expertise it provides.
You may be referred to an oncoplastic breast surgeon if you have been diagnosed with breast cancer and the tumour is likely to affect your breast shape or appearance if removed. If preserving breast appearance is an important consideration in your treatment plan, it may be the best option.
You may also consider oncoplastic breast surgery if you require a mastectomy (breast removal) and are considering breast reconstruction.
Mr Andrew Pieri’s Approach To Oncoplastic Breast Surgery
With over 16 years of experience, Mr Andrew Pieri specialises in combining effective cancer treatment with the best possible cosmetic outcome.
Full-time dedication to a specific speciality has allowed Mr Pieri to develop the necessary expertise to perform a range of cancer excision procedures. These include advanced surgery techniques to remove more tissue in cases that require it while preserving the appearance of the breast.
He also performs complex reconstructive plastic surgery procedures for those with a breast deformity from previous cancer surgery. A true pioneer in developing new technologies, Mr Pieri, has numerous publications, national presentations and a medical device patent to his name.
Benefits Of Oncoplastic Breast Surgery
- 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.
FAQs About Oncoplastic Breast Surgery
Is an oncoplastic breast surgeon the same as a plastic surgeon?
No. An oncoplastic breast surgeon is trained in both breast cancer surgery and reconstructive techniques, whereas a plastic surgeon focuses primarily on reconstruction or cosmetic procedures.
Is oncoplastic breast surgery only used for cancer patients?
Yes. Oncoplastic breast surgery is specifically designed to combine cancer treatment with breast reconstruction or reshaping techniques.
Can oncoplastic breast surgery be performed during the same operation?
In many cases, yes. Reconstruction or reshaping can often be performed immediately after cancer removal, reducing the need for additional procedures.
Does oncoplastic breast surgery improve cosmetic outcomes?
The primary goal is cancer treatment, but oncoplastic techniques can help preserve breast shape, symmetry, and appearance whenever possible.
