Therapeutic Breast Reduction in Upper Quadrant Breast Tumor

Abstract

Introduction: Breast conserving surgery plus radiation therapy and mastectomy procedures has equal results in terms of survival. Oncoplastic surgery principles along with breast reduction techniques allow for very good aesthetic results in immediate breast reconstruction with local tissues in several well-defined clinical scenarios. Nevertheless, we still find several limitations to their use regarding the location of the tumor or the need for inconvenient skin resections out of the standard markings of breast reduction. We present a case where traditional breast reduction techniques were inadequate and technical modifications of standard markings and pedicle design were developed to avoid the need to undergo a mastectomy. Methods: We present a patient diagnosed with breast cancer where the clinical characteristics of the tumor (location, skin excision needed) precluded the use of traditional oncoplastic breast reduction techniques. Modifications to the traditional breast reduction techniques were used to cope with the oncological resections needed. Results: A good global symmetry and aesthetic result were achieved. Scar pattern obtained was considered relatively camouflaged and patient satisfaction was high. Conclusion: Breast reduction procedures can be the solution for the treatment of breast cancer. The location of the tumor in the superior quadrants outside standard markings and the need to include skin in the tumor resection can be sidetracked by using enlarged NAC pedicles with modifications to classic skin markings without compromising oncologic safety. The final aesthetic results obtained are considered very good and the patient is very satisfied.