Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction After Lumpectomy in San Luis Obispo County

A lumpectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a cancerous tumor along with a small margin of surrounding tissue, aiming to preserve as much of the breast as possible.

While a lumpectomy may effectively treat the cancerous tumor, it can result in a deformity of the breast tissue, leading to feelings of loss of attractiveness and femininity for many women.

Breast reconstruction surgery can help reduce this deformity, but oncoplastic breast reconstruction after a lumpectomy, performed by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Charles Chalekson in San Luis Obispo County, may offer even greater benefits.

What Is Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction After Lumpectomy?

Oncoplastic breast reconstruction combines cancer surgery with plastic surgery to preserve your breast’s appearance after a lumpectomy. During this procedure, Dr. Chalekson works with your cancer surgeon while they remove the tumor to maintain or recreate the breast’s shape and symmetry.

The procedure may involve reshaping the remaining breast tissue using techniques such as breast reduction, breast lift, or incorporating tissue from other parts of the body. In cases where a breast lift or reduction is performed, both breasts are typically treated to maintain symmetry.

Oncoplastic breast reconstruction after a lumpectomy in San Luis Obispo County can reduce the need for corrective procedures later and improve psychological and cosmetic outcomes. Recovery time varies based on the extent of the surgery, but many women resume normal activities within a few weeks.

Who Is Eligible for Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction After Lumpectomy?

Several criteria determine eligibility for oncoplastic breast reconstruction after a lumpectomy:

Cancer Stage and Type

The procedure is most effective in patients with early-stage breast cancer. The tumor should be small and localized, so its removal is less likely to significantly impact breast size and shape.

Breast Size

The procedure is generally more straightforward in women with larger breasts, as there is more tissue available for reshaping.

Overall Health

Good candidates should be in good health, able to tolerate surgery, and have a desire to preserve the natural breast shape and appearance.

Radiation Therapy

Candidates should not have undergone radiation therapy, as it can affect the tissue’s ability to heal.

Women who are not ideal candidates typically have smaller breasts, have had more than one lumpectomy, or have inflammatory breast cancer. Those with multiple tumors throughout the breast tissue may also not be suitable candidates unless their breast is large and the tumors are small.

What Techniques Are Available for Reconstruction

Several techniques can be used during oncoplastic breast reconstruction after lumpectomy:

Local Advancement Flap

This technique involves using a small portion of the surrounding tissue to reconstruct the area where the tumor was removed, minimizing indentations or defects in the breast tissue. Scar tissue will remain after healing.

Bilateral Breast Reduction

This technique allows for symmetry by reducing the size and altering the shape of both breasts during or after a lumpectomy.

Bilateral Breast Lift

Ideal for those who do not want to significantly reduce the size of their breasts, this technique involves removing minimal tissue (mainly from the lumpectomy area) and lifting the breasts to a higher position on the chest. Nipple relocation may be necessary for symmetry.

Skin-Sparing Mastectomy

In cases where a full mastectomy is needed due to advanced-stage breast cancer or a large tumor, a skin-sparing mastectomy can help preserve the breast’s original shape and appearance.

Learn More About Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction After Lumpectomy in San Luis Obispo County

When battling cancer, it’s important to restore your body and regain your sense of self. We encourage you to contact our office and schedule a consultation to learn more about oncoplastic breast reconstruction after lumpectomy in San Luis Obispo County. Dr. Chalekson and our team are here to provide the care and support you need.