Breast Surgery Advancements for the 2.5 million Breast Cancer Survivors

There have been great advancements in breast surgery to preserve the maximum breast structure post cancer surgery to create a normal appearing breast. Weather it is a biopsy or partial mastectomy, there have been limited options available to improve the appearance of the breast after surgery. Today, surgeons may transfer tissue to the breast when defects result from partial cancer surgery.

Breast duct cancerous tissue requires that the duct system be removed. Yet, today the nipple areola and skin can be preserved as long as the location of the tumor is far from the nipple and areola. In addition, an implant or fat transfer may be performed to fill the affected area.

When an implant is not appropriate post breast cancer surgery, DIEP flap surgery may be performed to rebuild the breast. DIEP flap surgery focuses on transferring fat from the lower abdomen to the breast.

Another choice post breast surgery is using the connective tissue layer of cadaver tissue to create a pocket that allows for an implant to be placed. While this technique is not common, it holds promise for the future. 

The use of fat transfers for breast surgery has been an option through a select number of plastic surgeons for many years. The idea of injecting fat from a donor area of the body to a treatment area is appealing because it is a less invasive approach when compared with traditional augmentation. This methodology is just beginning to receive recognition within the medical community.    

Are you considering having breast augmentation surgery? Please contact us today to speak with a board certified plastic surgeon who can better inform you on your surgery options.