Specialist service · Cancer surgery & reconstruction
Oncoplastic Reconstruction
Oncoplastic breast surgery combines cancer removal with reconstructive techniques to protect oncological goals while improving the remaining breast shape. It may extend breast-conserving options for selected patients.
- Cancer clearance remains the first priority
- Immediate reshaping or therapeutic reduction
- Symmetry and radiotherapy considered in advance
Suitability
When may oncoplastic planning help?
The technique is selected from the cancer location and extent, breast size and shape, tissue quality and likely additional treatment.
- A tumour removal likely to leave a visible contour defect
- Large or drooping breasts where therapeutic reduction may help
- A tumour position suitable for local tissue rearrangement
- A wish to discuss immediate or delayed reconstruction after mastectomy
Oncoplastic breast conservation
After the tumour is removed with planned margins, nearby breast tissue can be rearranged to fill the defect. Larger-volume techniques may use reduction or lift patterns to reshape the treated breast, sometimes with surgery to the other breast for balance. The cancer operation and reconstructive design are planned together, not as separate afterthoughts.
Reconstruction after mastectomy
Options may use an implant, the patient’s own tissue, a combination, or a deliberate flat closure. Reconstruction may start at mastectomy or be delayed. Tumour biology, skin involvement, smoking, diabetes, body habitus, previous surgery and anticipated radiotherapy all influence timing and technique.
- Coordinate decisions with oncology and radiology findings
- Preserve safe margins and reliable blood supply
- Explain symmetry procedures and possible staged surgery
Pathology, radiotherapy and follow-up
Final pathology can show that more tissue must be removed despite careful planning. Radiotherapy may alter softness, shape and healing, and should be considered before selecting the technique. Follow-up includes cancer surveillance as well as review of scars, symmetry and reconstruction health.
Oncoplastic considerations
These procedures combine the risks of cancer surgery with those of reshaping or reconstruction.
- Bleeding, infection, seroma and wound breakdown
- Fat necrosis, firmness, contour change or asymmetry
- Positive margins and possible further cancer surgery
- Partial tissue, skin, nipple, implant or flap complications
- Healing problems that may affect the timing of additional treatment
Frequently asked questions
Does oncoplastic surgery compromise cancer treatment?
It should not. Cancer clearance is the priority, and the reconstructive method is designed around safe removal and planned radiotherapy. Final pathology can still require further surgery.
Can both breasts be operated on?
Sometimes a balancing reduction or lift is performed on the other breast, either at the same operation or later. Timing is individualized.
Will I still need radiotherapy?
Often yes after breast-conserving surgery. Oncoplastic reshaping does not replace radiotherapy when it is oncologically indicated.
Content was reviewed against official medical and professional patient-information sources.
- National Cancer Institute — Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy
- National Cancer Institute — Breast Cancer Surgery
Last medically reviewed: 22 August 2026
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This page is general information. Procedure choice, technique, recovery and risk vary with your examination and health.