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Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction – What Is It?

Oncoplastic reconstruction in Raleigh & Cary, NC with DR. Anu Antony is ideal for patients undergoing lumpectomy for breast cancer, where only part of the breast tissue is removed. The goal is to prevent significant asymmetry that might occur after tumor removal, particularly with larger tumors or tumors located in visually strategic areas of the breast. Insurance does not cover breast reconstruction procedures performed at Dr. Antony’s practice. We do offer our patients financing options through trusted healthcare lenders if financial assistance is needed.

What Is the Procedure?

  • Consultation and Planning: Dr. Antony conducts a thorough evaluation to discuss the diagnosis, review the planned oncologic surgery, and determine the best oncoplastic technique based on the tumor’s size and location.

Types of Surgical Techniques

  • Volume Displacement: For more minor tissue removals, Dr. Antony may use local tissue rearrangement techniques to fill the void left by the tumor removal. This approach is often sufficient for moderate-sized tumors and results in less scarring.
  • Volume Replacement: For more extensive breast tissue loss, tissue from another part of the patient’s body (such as the back or abdomen) may be used to reconstruct the breast. This is similar to traditional breast reconstruction methods suitable for larger tumors or when a significant amount of tissue has been removed.
  • Combining with Symmetry Procedures: Often, procedures on the opposite breast, such as a breast lift or reduction, are performed simultaneously to maintain symmetry and achieve a balanced appearance.
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Benefits of Oncoplastic Reconstruction

  • Improved Cosmetic Outcomes: By immediately addressing the potential deformities from tumor removal, oncoplastic reconstruction can lead to better aesthetic results than traditional lumpectomy.
  • Enhanced Psychological Well-Being: Patients often experience improved self-esteem and body image post-surgery, knowing they have not only treated their cancer but also minimized its impact on their appearance.
  • Single Surgery: Combining tumor removal and cosmetic reshaping in one procedure reduces the overall number of surgeries and anesthesia exposures.

Recovery After Surgery – What To Expect?

Recovery after oncoplastic breast reconstruction varies depending on the extent of the surgery and individual patient factors. Typically, patients can expect to spend one to two nights in the hospital for initial post-operative care and monitoring. The first few weeks at home are crucial for recovery, during which patients will experience some swelling and discomfort. Pain management will be tailored to the individual woman’s needs, and activities are limited to light tasks.  Dr. Anu Antony will require you to avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for at least four to six weeks to ensure proper healing and maintain the reconstruction’s integrity. Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor the healing process, with the first check-up the first week after surgery. These appointments are essential for assessing the surgical site and adjusting care protocols. Patients typically see significant improvement and can return to most normal activities within six to eight weeks post-surgery. 

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Why Choose Dr. Anu Antony?

Dr. Antony is a Female Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, Harvard and Stanford trained, with over 20 years of experience, dedicated to combining aesthetic excellence with optimal cancer care. Her artistic training at the prestigious Lorenzo Medici Institute of Art in Italy provides a refined eye for detail, allowing her to achieve results that are both beautiful and medically precise.

Dr. Antony completed her medical degree and rigorous training in general and plastic surgery at Stanford University Medical Center, followed by specialized fellowships at Cornell Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Hospital and Harvard Massachusetts General Hospital. This unique combination of artistic sensibility, advanced surgical expertise, and deep understanding of oncologic principles ensures patients receive superior oncoplastic care that balances form, function, and safety.

Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction FAQs

How long does the procedure take?

What is the recovery period like?

How will my breasts look after oncoplastic surgery?

Does this procedure affect my cancer treatment?

Is this procedure covered by insurance?

How long does the procedure take?

The surgery typically takes longer than a traditional lumpectomy, as two surgeons are involved. The exact time will depend on the complexity of the cancer removal and the extent of the reconstruction required.

What is the recovery period like?

Recovery is similar to a standard lumpectomy or breast reduction. You can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, but most patients are able to return to light activities within a week or two. Strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks.

How will my breasts look after oncoplastic surgery?

The goal is to provide a natural and symmetrical result. The surgeon's artistic and technical skills are used to reshape the breast to minimize the visible effects of the surgery. In many cases, a symmetrical result is achieved by performing a procedure on the opposite breast.

Does this procedure affect my cancer treatment?

No, oncoplastic reconstruction does not affect the effectiveness of your cancer treatment. It is a collaborative approach that ensures the best possible medical outcome while also prioritizing your aesthetic well-being.

Is this procedure covered by insurance?

Yes. Since this is a cancer-related surgery, most of the costs are covered by insurance, and federal law mandates that breast reconstruction be included in most insurance plans.

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