Breast Cancer Surgery Blog

Lipofilling, Liquid Gold of breast cancer surgery What is Autologous Fat Grafting? Fat grafting, also known as lipofilling or autologous fat grafting, is a minimally invasive reconstructive method that an Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon uses to achieve an excellent outcome after breast cancer surgery. It utilises a patient's own adipose tissue to replenish volume loss resulting from breast cancer treatment or congenital abnormalities. This procedure involves transferring fat from one area of the body, typically the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks, to another area that requires augmentation or reconstruction. Fat injection specifically refers to the process of injecting harvested fat cells into a targeted area. What is the role of Lipofilling in Breast Cancer Reconstructive Surgery? Lipofilling plays a crucial role in breast cancer reconstructive surgery, offering a more natural alternative to traditional implant-based reconstruction. It allows for the creation of a soft and natural breast mound using the patient's own tissue, which can improve symmetry and restore confidence following mastectomy. Additionally, lipofilling can address contour irregularities and improve the aesthetic outcome of breast reconstruction. However, it's essential for patients to discuss their goals and expectations with their surgeon to determine if lipofilling is the right option for them, taking into account factors such as previous radiation therapy and the presence of any remaining cancer cells. What are the breast cancer surgical indications of Fat Grafting? The indications for fat grafting encompass rectifying and averting defects stemming from surgeries for breast cancer, preempting breast cancer, and rectifying defects related to congenital abnormalities. Does this procedure benefit patients who have had previous breast reconstruction? For patients who have previously undergone breast reconstruction, lipofilling can enhance prosthetic coverage and mitigate rippling, contour defects, and the adverse effects of radiotherapy on reconstructed breast skin. Total breast reconstruction via lipofilling necessitates multiple sessions due to the limited amount of tissue transferred per session. Additionally, lipofilling can aid in delayed breast reconstruction by preparing thin or irradiated chest skin flaps before the insertion of a tissue expander or autologous flap surgery. Furthermore, preliminary studies suggest that lipofilling may alleviate chronic pain following breast cancer treatment, although its efficacy can vary, warranting further investigation. What are the steps of the procedure?

Goldilocks Mastectomy WHAT IS A GOLDILOCKS MASTECTOMY? Goldilocks procedure is undertaken subsequent to a mastectomy, aimed at total elimination of all breast tissue. Following bilateral mastectomy, the remaining fatty tissue and skin undergo a transformative process to craft a breast mound, thereby providing a semblance of shape and definition to the breast. While this procedure is commonly employed for patients with larger and heavier breasts, the applicability extends to some patients with smaller breasts. Without the use of tissue expanders, implants or flap insertion; the Goldilocks mastectomy offers a flexible and patient-centered approach to breast reconstruction.

Triple Negative Breast Cancer What is a Triple Negative Breast Cancer? Triple Negative Breast Cancer, abbreviated to TNBC, is a unique subtype of breast cancer characterised by the absence of these three receptors (hence Triple Negative) on the cancer cells. Breast cancer is not a singular entity. There are so many variables, and while most breast cancers fit into a particular mould, a smaller percentage are distinct and different. Understanding the characteristics and differences of t between triple-negative breast cancer and other types of breast cancer is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. We determine the specific type of breast cancer based on the presence or absence of receptors, proteins found inside or on the surface of cells that trigger cellular responses. These receptors include the Oestrogen receptor (ER) Progesterone Receptor (PR) Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2)

Nipple discharge refers to the presence of fluid coming out of the nipple. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, infection, injury, or breast cancer. The discharge can be unilateral (from one breast) or bilateral (from both breasts) and may vary in colour and consistency

Gynaecomastia is an increase in the amount of breast gland tissue in boys or men, caused by an imbalance of the hormones oestrogen and testosterone. It can affect one or both breasts, sometimes unevenly.

Oncoplastic breast surgery uses advanced techniques for breast cancer operations in which two important goals are achieved: most importantly the breast cancer is removed safely with a rim of healthy breast tissue around it. Secondly, the defect is reconstructed to provide the most cosmetic outcome, and achieve symettry.

If you’ve been referred to a breast clinic by your GP or if you’ve been recalled following routine breast screening, it’s natural to feel anxious or worried. The vast majority of people who are seen at a breast clinic will not have breast cancer. However, it’s still important to attend your breast clinic appointment so you can be fully assessed

Read my post to understand the different types of breast cancer surgery available today and what you can expect before and after these critical procedures. Further information on post operative pain and recovery for breast cancer surgery.

Read more as I discuss 2 patients and learn about early recognition of symptoms of breast cancer, breast cancer surgery and outcome, with a word on breast screening