Contour defects following breast conserving surgery and correction of defects

Abstract

Introduction: Nowadays, in almost 70% of all patients with primary breast cancer, breast-conserving surgery is a possible solution. The aim of breast conserving surgery is radical resection of the tumor on one hand and on the other hand the result should be aesthetically satisfying. Plastic surgical techniques can provide corrections of contour deformities as well as improving the aesthetic result of breast conserving surgery in primary procedures. Patients and methods: With respect to tumor size and localization, size and shape of the breast different surgical techniques are used to correct resulting deformities or to provide them in primary breast-conserving surgery. Breast reduction techniques, local or distant flaps are viable solutions. Results: Since 2000 21 patients received corrective surgery of contour deformities at our department, 30 patients underwent primary oncoplastic treatment. Different techniques were used and the results will be presented. Almost all patients were satisfied after treatment and the psychological impairment was reduced by aesthetical improvement. Conclusion: Individual oncoplastic treatment can improve the aesthetic result after breast-conserving therapy beside oncologically safe resections. To optimize the surgical therapy of breast cancer patient's plastic surgical techniques should be considered. Therefore an interdisciplinary approach seems to be advantageous.