Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour that may be invasive or non-invasive.
These include age, family history, genetic mutations (e.g. BRCA1 or BRCA2), early menstruation or late menopause, obesity, alcohol use, and hormone replacement therapy.
Symptoms may include a new lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast shape or size, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling.
Treatment options depend on cancer type, size, location, and patient preference, and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, and immunotherapy.
Mastectomy involves removal of the entire breast and may be recommended when the tumour is large, there are multiple areas of cancer in the breast, or when breast-conserving surgery is not suitable.
There are several types of mastectomy, including:
Mastectomy may also be offered as a risk-reduction strategy in patients with strong genetic predisposition, such as BRCA mutation carriers.
Also known as lumpectomy or wide local excision, breast conserving surgery involves removing the cancerous tissue and a margin of surrounding healthy tissue while preserving most of the breast. It is typically followed by radiotherapy to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Oncoplastic Reconstructive Surgery
This is a specialised approach that combines cancer removal with plastic surgery techniques to reshape the remaining breast tissue.
Oncoplastic surgery is ideal for women with moderate-to-large breasts or tumours in cosmetically sensitive areas. It offers superior cosmetic results without compromising cancer control.
Studies show that breast conserving surgery (oncoplastic approach) followed by radiotherapy is as effective as mastectomy in early-stage breast cancer, with the added benefit of maintaining the natural appearance of the breast.
Breast reconstruction can restore the appearance of the breast following mastectomy. It may be performed immediately at the time of mastectomy or delayed until after cancer treatment is complete.
There are two main types of reconstruction:
Reconstruction is a highly personal decision. Our team supports patients in understanding their options and choosing a method aligned with their preferences, medical needs, and lifestyle.
At Sydney Surgical Associates, we offer advanced diagnostic techniques and a range of surgical options for the treatment and removal of skin conditions. Our experienced surgeons are committed to providing high-quality care, ensuring the best possible outcomes with minimal discomfort and recovery time.
