Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers that women in America are diagnosed with, second to only skin cancer. Treatment options include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and surgery to remove some or all of the breast tissue (lumpectomy or mastectomy). Lumpectomy and mastectomy procedures can result in disfigured breasts or a complete lack of breasts, depending on how much tissue needs to be removed. Breast reconstruction surgery can restore the appearance of the breasts, but it was previously only performed after patients had healed from their breast cancer treatment surgery. This left patients with the trauma of seeing themselves without breasts and feeling incomplete and less feminine. Fortunately, as public awareness and support have increased, research funding has allowed for the development of new techniques for breast cancer treatment and reconstruction.
A recently developed option for breast cancer patients is oncoplastic breast surgery in which plastic surgery techniques for reconstruction are combined with breast cancer treatment (oncology). Dr. Oliver and Dr. Jack work closely with the breast cancer surgeon to coordinate surgical techniques in order to achieve the best possible results. Oncoplastic surgery generally achieves an improved final breast appearance compared to separate procedures for treatment and reconstruction.
Oncoplastic breast surgery techniques include:
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Nipple-sparing mastectomy
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Fat grafting of contour irregularities, radiated skin, and lumpectomy deformities
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Immediate reconstruction using a flap method or implants, which includes the following benefits:
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Requires only one surgery and one recovery period
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Minimizes scarring
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Reduces the risk of scar-related complications
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If you’ve been diagnosed with or treated for breast cancer, Dr. Robert I. Oliver and Dr. Jason M. Jack are committed to helping you through this difficult time so you can feel whole again. They offer many techniques for breast reconstruction and can help you determine the best treatment options for your individual circumstances. To schedule a consultation with Plastic Surgery Specialists of Birmingham, please call (205) 298-8660 or fill out our online contact form today.