Therapeutic Breast Surgery

Wide Local Excision (WLE)

This involves removal of the cancer and some normal surrounding tissue while keeping as much of the breast tissue and shape as possible for optimal cosmetic outcome following surgery. WLE is the preferred option in early breast cancer cases that are suitable for breast conserving surgery. For select cases a breast reduction can be performed at the time of cancer removal. This is called a therapeutic WLE mammoplasty.

Central Partial Mastectomy

Cancer behind the nipple, or DCIS extending to the central nipple ducts, can require WLE to include the nipple areolar complex.

Mastectomy without Reconstruction

Mastectomy involves the surgical removal of one or both breasts. This is indicated for widespread DCIS and larger or multifocal invasive cancers. Some patients decide to have mastectomy rather than breast conservation. Ladies who do not have reconstruction often choose to wear a ‘cushioned filler’ inside their bra following mastectomy.

Mastectomy with Reconstruction

  • Skin Sparing Mastectomy

  • Skin & Nipple Sparing Mastectomy

  • Immediate or Delayed Reconstruction

  • Autologous or Prosthetic Reconstruction

The skin overlying the breast tissue, and in some cases the nipple & areola, are preserved in the event of immediate breast reconstruction. Reconstruction of the breast can be done using the patient’s own tissue (autologous) or using a prosthesis (tissue expander and/or breast implant). The patient’s body shape and size, the nature and extent of their cancer, as well as their own personal preferences, all help guide decision making around optimal type and timing of reconstruction. These decisions are made by patients following careful consultation with both myself and a Breast Plastic Surgeon. Our breast care nurses are also a valuable source of information and support at this challenging time.

Gynaecomastia

Occasionally teenage boys and men of various ages can develop glandular breast tissue which can be both visible and painful. Gynaecomastia surgery (subcutaneous mastectomy) involves the removal of glandular breast tissue from the male chest.