3 SOLUTIONS FOR IMPROVING BREAST SHAPE AFTER LUMPECTOMY

Women who elect to undergo a lumpectomy rather than a mastectomy to remove cancerous tumors in the breast are often concerned about what their resulting breast shape will be.

Many of my patients are relieved to find that, with modern developments, lumpectomies do not necessarily result in having permanently dented or misshaped breasts. In fact, there are a variety of methods for improving breast shape after a lumpectomy. Here is a closer look at three of the most common techniques:

1. SMALL IMPLANT

Inserting a small implant into the affected breast(s) can be an effective method of improving breast symmetry after a lumpectomy. Women should wait about a year after completing radiation therapy before considering implants. However, not all lumpectomy patients are good candidates for implants, as the radiation can sometimes result in a higher risk of complication.

2. BRA INSERTS

A variety of post-lumpectomy products are available for women who would like to improve the appearance of their breast shape under clothing. Bra inserts, often in the form of silicone forms, are available to purchase online and through specialty stores, and can be excellent options for women who do not wish to undergo another surgery for improving their breast shape.

3. ONCOPLASTIC SURGERY

In my practice, I specialize in oncoplastic surgery, a technique that involves complete surgical removal of the tumor performed in combination with reconstructive plastic surgery. Since the cancer is removed at the same time as the breast reconstruction, patients only need to undergo one surgical procedure and a single recovery period. Oncoplastic surgery can be ideal for women who would like to preserve their natural breast shape as much as possible while also taking care of their health.