Lumpectomy Reconstruction

Our experts use oncoplastic surgery to address size changes or deformities after a lumpectomy.

A lumpectomy procedure removes less tissue from your breast than a mastectomy, but depending on the size of the tumor, this amount of tissue can vary. Lumpectomy is often referred to as breast conservation therapy. However, you may still notice changes in your breast from this procedure and other treatments such as radiation therapy. This may include a difference in breast size, or deformities such as a misshapen breast, dents or dimples.

How does lumpectomy reconstruction work?

Through oncoplastic surgery, we can address any changes in the breast by using breast lift or reduction techniques, or fat grafting—harvesting fat from another part of the body and injecting it into specific areas of the surgically altered breast to match the shape of the other breast. If necessary, we can also perform a symmetry procedure on the healthy breast to make them look the same.

If you had a lumpectomy reconstruction in the past and didn’t have a good outcome, we can help. Our surgeons are experienced in techniques that can correct issues from previous reconstruction procedures.

• Mastectomy Reconstruction
• Corrective Reconstruction
• Breast Reconstruction FAQs

Lumpectomy reconstruction: Why choose Henry Ford Health?

• Integrated care: Many breast cancer patients tell us breast reconstruction surgery after a lumpectomy is a critical part of their healing process. Because of this, plastic surgeons who specialize in breast reconstruction play a crucial role on our breast cancer tumor board. We are the only program in Michigan to include plastic surgeons on the breast cancer team.
• Expert team: We perform over 250 breast reconstruction procedures every year. Our lumpectomy reconstruction surgeons use proven approaches for the best possible outcomes.
• A focus on immediate reconstruction: This is our gold standard, and we are one of few centers that offer immediate reconstruction at the time of lumpectomy. Some women hesitate to have breast reconstruction because of concerns over disfigurement. Research has shown that women who can get breast reconstruction at the time of their cancer surgery experience a minimal change in quality of life, given that they come out of surgery with their reconstructed breast. Our expert team has the microsurgical experience necessary to perform these procedures, and we work to offer immediate reconstruction at the time of cancer surgery to as many women as possible. For example, depending on your tumor size, location and droopiness of your breasts, we may be able to perform your lumpectomy and lumpectomy reconstruction at the same time.
• Personalized treatment plans: If you need oncoplastic surgery after a lumpectomy, your surgeon will discuss your options soon after your breast cancer diagnosis. We consider what’s most important to you and give you all the information, including our treatment recommendations, so you can make an informed decision.
• Support throughout your care: Cancer care is a journey. We provide support throughout treatment to help aid your recovery and ensure you can enjoy the highest quality of life.

Am I a candidate for oncoplastic surgery?

Lumpectomy reconstruction may be recommended if you:

• Have large breasts and need a large amount of breast tissue removed.
• Want smaller, lifted breasts that will be symmetrical.

Oncoplastic surgery may not be recommended if you:

• Have breast cancer where the span of the disease is too large.
• Don’t want more than one scar on your breast.
• Don’t want your breast size reduced.
• Have smaller breasts.
• Have cancer in multiple areas of the breast.
• Have cancer behind the nipple.
• Are a diabetic with poorly controlled blood sugars. People who have an A1C greater than 7 are not a candidate.
• Are an active smoker or marijuana user. These must be stopped within 8 weeks of surgery.