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Oncoplastic Breast Surgery

What is Oncoplastic Breast Surgery?

Oncoplastic breast surgery is a specialized approach that blends breast cancer removal with plastic surgery techniques in a single, carefully coordinated procedure. 

Performed at the time of a lumpectomy, an oncoplastic lumpectomy allows surgeons to not only remove the tumor with clear margins but also immediately reshape and preserve the natural contour of the breast. Radiation therapy typically follows oncoplastic surgery a few weeks later. 

For many patients, this approach means fewer surgeries, better cosmetic outcomes, and less emotional distress during an already overwhelming time.

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Key Information

  • Combines cancer removal and reconstruction in one surgery
  • Preserves the natural shape and contour of the breast
  • May allow for larger tumors to be removed without mastectomy
  • Ideal for patients undergoing lumpectomy who are concerned about cosmetic outcomes
  • Often includes reshaping or lifting of both breasts for improved symmetry
  • Does not compromise cancer care
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What to Expect During Surgery

If you and your care team decide that oncoplastic breast surgery is the right option, your breast surgeon and plastic surgeon will plan and perform your surgery together. 

After the breast surgeon carefully removes the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue, your PRMA reconstructive surgeon will immediately step in to reshape the remaining tissue, preserving your natural breast contour, minimizing visible changes, and creating the best cosmetic result possible.

In many cases, a lift or reduction is performed on the opposite breast during the same surgery to ensure close symmetry and balance.

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Recovery Timeline

  • Week 1:
    Expect soreness, swelling, and some bruising in the chest area. You’ll also need to avoid lifting, reaching, or strenuous activity.
  • Weeks 2-3:
    By weeks two and three, swelling begins to subside, energy gradually returns, and many patients resume light daily activities but should still avoid heavy lifting or exercise.
  • Weeks 4-6:
    By this stage, most patients feel significantly better. The incisions are well-healed, and you may be cleared to return to light exercise and normal routines. 
  • Weeks 6 and Beyond:
    You can typically resume full activities, including more strenuous movement and exercise, while final results—including breast shape and symmetry—continue to settle over the next few months.
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Sensation Restoration

PRMA has transformed breast reconstruction with their revolutionary TruSense® procedure, a proprietary technique that restores breast sensation in qualified patients, giving back not just form, but feeling.
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Am I a Candidate for an Oncoplastic Lumpectomy?

While oncoplastic breast surgery offers powerful benefits, it isn’t the right approach for everyone. Factors like tumor size, location, breast size, and future radiation needs all play a role in determining whether this technique is the best fit for you. 

You may be a strong candidate for an oncoplastic lumpectomy if:

  • Your breast tumor is small to moderately sized and can be removed with clear margins.
  • You have medium to large breasts with enough tissue to allow reshaping after lumpectomy.
  • You’re planning to preserve your breast (rather than undergo a mastectomy).
  • You’re concerned about the cosmetic impact of a lumpectomy and want to minimize deformity or asymmetry.
  • You’re open to a possible breast lift or reduction on one or both sides for optimal symmetry.
  • You’re a non-smoker or willing to quit, which supports healing and reduces complications.
  • You have no major medical conditions that would increase surgical risk.
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Find Your Surgeon

PRMA is the only center in San Antonio, Texas, and one of the few centers worldwide that offers breast reconstruction on such a large scale. Discover why thousands of patients travel from across Texas, the US, and the world for their breast reconstruction surgery. We are proud to have a tremendous global reputation for surgical excellence.
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Dr. Peter Ledoux
Plastic & Reconstructive Microsurgeon specializing in breast reconstruction and microsurgical techniques
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Dr. Steven Pisano

Plastic & Reconstructive Microsurgeon specializing in breast reconstruction and complex microsurgery

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Dr. Chet Nastala
Plastic & Reconstructive Microsurgeon specializing in advanced breast reconstruction
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Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo
Championing Advanced Breast Reconstruction Access Nationwide
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Dr. Oscar Ochoa
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon & Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
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Dr. Gary Arishita
Dedicated to Restoring Confidence Through Expert Reconstruction
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Dr. Andrew Gassman
Plastic & Reconstructive Microsurgeon specializing in breast reconstruction and aesthetic surgery
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Dr. Anton Fries
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon specializing in advanced lymphatic surgery and reconstructive microsurgery
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Dr. Lauren Whipple
Plastic & Reconstructive Microsurgeon specializing in breast reconstruction and reconstructive care
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Dr. Tyler Merceron

Plastic & Reconstructive Microsurgeon specializing in breast reconstruction and microsurgical care

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Dr. Courtney Carpenter
Plastic & Reconstructive Microsurgeon specializing in breast reconstruction
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Dr. Edwin Acevedo
Plastic & Reconstructive Microsurgeon specializing in breast reconstruction and microsurgery

Will Insurance Cover Oncoplastic Breast Surgery?

Thanks to the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA), most health insurance providers are required by federal law to cover breast reconstruction after cancer surgery, including procedures needed to achieve symmetry. 

At PRMA, our team works directly with your insurance provider to confirm coverage and minimize out-of-pocket surprises. We believe that every patient deserves access to the best reconstruction options, and we’re here to help make that possible.

For more information, visit Insurance FAQs in the patient resource center. 

Insurance FAQs
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Preparing for Surgery

Many of our patients travel from out of town for an oncoplastic breast surgery and other breast procedures. Our team will walk you through every step, from pre-op planning to travel arrangements, to ensure a smooth and supported experience.

Learn more about:
Preparing for Surgery
Travel Accomodations

Frequently Asked Questions

Will oncoplastic surgery delay my cancer treatment?
Oncoplastic breast surgery is carefully coordinated with your cancer care team to ensure there’s no delay in treatment. In fact, combining cancer removal and reconstruction into one surgery can actually streamline your overall care timeline.
Will I have visible scarring after surgery?
All surgeries leave some scars, but oncoplastic techniques are designed to minimize and strategically place incisions to make scars as imperceptible as possible.
Can I pursue breast cancer reconstruction after a lumpectomy?
Yes—Our expert surgeons can perform reconstruction at any time after a lumpectomy.
Will I lose sensation in my breast after oncoplastic surgery?
It’s possible to experience some numbness or changes in sensation. However, sensation loss tends to be less significant than after a full mastectomy, and some patients notice gradual improvement over time.

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