Oncoplastic and reconstructive surgery of the breast

Oncoplastic surgery has been widely developed during the last decade. The combination of a large tumor resection performed by the breast surgeon and the immediate breast reconstruction by the plastic surgeon has numerous advantages. This technique provides safer resection with larger margins and immediate aesthetic results.

During the last decade, we have used an algorithm in oncoplastic surgery: Small and moderate size breast tumors (T₁₋₂) are considered the best indications for conserving breast surgery. Depending on the breast size and tumor/breast size relation, determinesthe reconstructive technique is used. A glandular flap, as a part of breast reduction techniques, was raised from the breast itself to fill defects after tumorectomy in large-size breast. However, contralateral breast reduction is necessary to achieve breast symmetry. In the case of smaller breast size, partial breast reconstruction is performed using pedicled flaps (LD or muscle sparing LD, TDAP, LICAP, SAAP) harvested from the back and/or the axillary region. Adequate symmetry is obtained without operating on the contralateral breast. Adjuvant radiotherapy can be started after 4-6 weeks postoperatively.

In total 119 patients, in whom bilateral breast remodeling techniques and pedicled flaps were used in 26 and 93 patients respectively. In three cases, margins were involved with the tumor. Wider excision was done in two patients. Total mastectomy was performed in the third patient. With an average follow-up of 4 years, further surgery was indicated in only three patients because of fat necrosis. Converting to total mastectomy with immediate breast reconstruction with a DIEAP flap was necessary in one patient at 2 years after the initial partial breast reconstruction with a TDAP because of major fat necrosis. Aesthetic results and patient satisfaction are promising, however, longer follow-up is still required to confirm our 4-year-follow-up outcome.

Oncoplastic surgery offers a better cosmetic outcome as partial breast reconstruction, using various techniques, when performed during the same procedure. In partial breast reconstruction, therapeutic mammaplasty techniques offer creative options for large and pendulous breast. On the other hand, perforator flaps, which spare latissimus dorsi muscle function, provide valuable method for small size breasts.