Oncoplastic surgery: a creative approach to breast cancer management

Oncoplastic surgery combines the principles of surgical oncology with those of plastic and reconstructive surgery. The intent is to use established techniques from each field in order to provide adequate tumor resection without compromise while optimizing aesthetic outcomes. This patient-centered approach requires a multidisciplinary preoperative evaluation in order to devise a comprehensive surgical plan and coordinate adjuvant treatment as needed. This article provides a historical perspective as well as insight into various creative techniques for breast cancer surgery.