Oncoplastic breast surgery, methods of breast reconstruction. Breast augmentation and reduction

1. Big picture

This topic combines oncologic breast surgery and plastic reconstructive principles.

The examiner wants you to understand:

1. Oncoplastic breast surgery: removing cancer safely while reshaping the breast.
2. Breast reconstruction: restoring breast shape after mastectomy or large breast excision.
3. Breast augmentation: increasing breast volume, usually with implants or fat transfer.
4. Breast reduction: reducing breast volume and correcting ptosis, either for symptoms or symmetry.

The key surgical principle is:

Oncologic safety first
        ↓
Clear margins and correct cancer treatment
        ↓
Breast shape restoration
        ↓
Symmetry and patient quality of life

Cosmesis must never compromise cancer clearance.

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