A breast cancer diagnosis brings both medical and emotional challenges. For many women, the concern goes beyond survival. It includes body confidence, identity and overall well-being. This is where oncoplastic surgery in Singapore becomes a meaningful option.
By integrating breast cancer surgery with reconstruction, patients can achieve both effective cancer treatment and a natural breast appearance. In recent years, more women are choosing oncoplastic breast surgery in Singapore because it addresses both health and quality of life, ensuring that treatment doesn’t mean losing a sense of femininity.
What is Oncoplastic Surgery
Oncoplastic breast surgery is a technique that brings together two important goals in one procedure — the removal of breast cancer and the reconstruction of breast shape.
In practice, this means that once the tumour or breast tissue is removed, reconstruction methods are used in the same operation. This can involve reshaping the remaining tissue or using tissue from another part of the body.
For women undergoing breast conservation surgery or partial mastectomy reconstruction, this approach provides both cancer treatment and aesthetic restoration within a single surgical plan.
Who Is a Candidate for Oncoplastic Surgery
Candidates usually include those requiring lumpectomy or partial mastectomy reconstruction, especially when the tumour size or location may affect breast appearance.
The ideal patients are women with medium to larger breast size, where tissue can be reshaped or replaced after tumour removal. Those considering breast reconstruction after lumpectomy also benefit from this approach.
A multidisciplinary evaluation involving breast surgeons, oncologists and reconstructive specialists ensures patients receive tailored recommendations.
Techniques Used in Oncoplastic Surgery in Singapore
There are several breast surgery techniques in this field. The right choice depends on medical needs, breast size, tumour location and patient preference.
- Volume displacement reshapes the remaining breast tissue after tumour removal, helping restore a natural contour. It is often used for women with medium to large breasts, where enough tissue remains for reshaping. Recovery usually follows the standard lumpectomy timeline, with added healing time for the tissue adjustment.
- Volume replacement uses tissue from another part of the body, such as the back or abdomen, to rebuild the breast shape after a larger tumour is removed. This method is preferable when significant breast tissue has been taken out and reshaping alone is not sufficient. Recovery may be longer since both the breast and donor site need time to heal.
- Nipple-sparing mastectomy preserves the nipple and skin while removing the breast tissue underneath, and it is often combined with immediate reconstruction. It may be suitable for selected patients where the tumour is not close to the nipple area. Recovery is similar to mastectomy with reconstruction, but preserving the skin and nipple can help achieve a more natural appearance.
- Symmetry procedures involve adjusting the opposite breast, such as reducing, lifting, or augmenting it, to create balance and proportion. This option may be recommended when one breast is reconstructed, and the other needs alignment for aesthetic harmony. Recovery varies depending on the procedure, but it is generally shorter than reconstruction itself.
These techniques ensure that cosmetic reconstruction after breast cancer treatment feels as natural as possible. Each method is tailored to both medical requirements and personal preferences, and a consultation can help determine the appropriate path forward. To learn which approach may be suitable for your needs, our breast surgeon is here to provide guidance and answer your questions.
Benefits of Oncoplastic Surgery
The advantages of this approach go beyond aesthetics.
Key benefits of oncoplastic breast surgery include:
Cancer removal with better cosmetic outcome, preserving confidence and body image. By combining cancer surgery with reconstruction, many women can maintain a natural breast contour after treatment. This approach not only addresses the disease but also supports self-esteem and quality of life moving forward.
Reduced need for multiple surgeries, since both cancer removal and reconstruction are done together. Patients often complete both stages in a single procedure. This lowers overall surgical risk, reduces time under anaesthesia, and means fewer hospital stays.
Psychological and emotional benefits, helping women feel whole and supported. Oncoplastic breast surgery can ease the emotional distress that sometimes follows breast surgery by preserving physical appearance. Many women report improved confidence, which can positively influence relationships, work, and daily activities.
Faster return to normal life, as recovery combines both surgical goals in one timeline. Since reconstruction is done at the same time as tumour removal, recovery is consolidated rather than extended over multiple procedures. This can help patients return to family, career, and personal routines sooner, with fewer interruptions.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery after oncoplastic surgery is both a physical and emotional journey. During the hospital stay, patients are monitored closely, and most can return home within a few days. At home, gentle movement, wound care, and rest are encouraged.
Follow-up appointments allow the care team to monitor healing, address scar management, and plan further treatment if needed.
Lifestyle tips such as maintaining a balanced diet, staying active with light exercise, and avoiding smoking support recovery. With thoughtful aftercare, patients feel more in control during their healing.
Choosing the Right Breast Surgeon in Singapore
Selecting the right surgeon is one of the most important decisions. Look for a doctor experienced in both oncology and reconstruction, as oncoplastic breast surgery requires expertise in both areas.
When exploring breast cancer surgery with reconstruction, patients should ask about available techniques, expected recovery timelines, and whether procedures like nipple-sparing mastectomy are suitable.
A multidisciplinary team — including a breast surgeon, oncologist and plastic surgeon — provides comprehensive care and ensures that medical and personal goals are aligned.
Taking the Next Step in Your Breast Cancer Journey
Oncoplastic surgery addresses both cancer control and personal well-being. By combining cancer removal with breast reconstruction, women can continue their recovery with confidence, knowing that both health and appearance are being cared for.
If you are exploring your options for breast surgery, Dr Andrew Lee and the team at Andrew Breast Clinic are ready to support you. We provide guidance tailored to your medical needs and personal goals. At every stage, you can feel assured that your care plan is designed to help you move forward with strength and peace of mind.
