Therapeutic Mammoplasty
Oncoplastic Breast Surgery Combining Cancer Treatment with Aesthetic Results
Therapeutic Mammoplasty in Newcastle
Oncoplastic Breast Surgery Combining Cancer Treatment with Aesthetic Results
At Mr Milligan’s breast surgery clinic in Newcastle, we offer therapeutic mammoplasty – an advanced oncoplastic procedure that combines cancer removal with breast reduction or reshaping techniques. This surgery provides effective cancer treatment while aiming to preserve the shape and symmetry of the breasts, helping you feel confident and comfortable in your recovery.
What Is Therapeutic Mammoplasty?
Therapeutic mammoplasty is a type of breast-conserving surgery used to treat breast cancer. It involves removing the cancerous tissue using techniques similar to a breast reduction or breast lift (mastopexy). The remaining tissue is then reshaped to achieve a more natural contour. When needed, the opposite breast can be reshaped at the same time or later to achieve symmetry.
This approach is ideal for women with moderate to large breasts or ptosis (drooping), who might otherwise be offered a full mastectomy.
Who Is a Candidate for Therapeutic Mammoplasty?
You may be suitable for therapeutic mammoplasty if:
- You have early-stage breast cancer that requires a lumpectomy
- You have medium to large breasts or a desire for smaller, lifted breasts
- You are not suitable for a lumpectomy alone due to cosmetic or oncological concerns
- You wish to avoid a full mastectomy, where safe to do so
Each case is carefully assessed through a multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach to ensure the best clinical and cosmetic outcome.
Types of Therapeutic Mammoplasty Techniques
Several oncoplastic techniques can be used depending on tumour size, location, and your breast shape:
- Wise Pattern Mammoplasty: Suitable for larger resections; uses an anchor-shaped incision
- Vertical Scar (Lollipop) Mammoplasty: Less extensive scarring; ideal for moderate tissue removal
- Benelli (Periareolar) Technique: Involves an incision around the areola for smaller cancers.
- Dual Pedicle or Extended Pedicle Techniques: Used when more extensive reshaping or repositioning of the nipple is required
- Contralateral Symmetrisation: Surgery on the opposite breast to achieve balance in size and shape
The Therapeutic Mammoplasty Procedure
The operation is performed under general anaesthetic and typically takes 2–3 hours. Key steps include:
- Pre-operative planning with mammograms, ultrasound, and/or MRI.
- Marking of the breast in the upright position to plan incisions.
- Removal of the tumour with a margin of healthy tissue.
- Reshaping of the breast using reduction/lift techniques.
- Nipple repositioning if needed.
- Placement of dissolvable stitches and surgical dressings.
If needed, the procedure can be combined with a sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary clearance.
Recovery After Therapeutic Mammoplasty
- Patients will either go home the same day or stay in hospital for 1 night
- Dressings are usually kept in place for 7–10 days
- You may need to wear a supportive surgical bra continuously during healing
- Mild bruising, swelling, and tightness are normal and settle over time
- Final results can take 3–6 months to fully settle
- Radiotherapy, if part of your treatment plan, will start after the wounds have fully healed
Your Patient Journey with Mr Milligan
- Initial Consultation: Detailed discussion of diagnosis, suitability, and your aesthetic goals
- MDT Planning: A collaborative approach involving radiologists, oncologists, and plastic surgeons to ensure personalised care
- Surgery at Nuffield Newcastle Hospital
- Follow-Up Care: Post-operative support and wound reviews
- Oncology Coordination: Seamless handover to oncology for radiotherapy or chemotherapy if required
- Symmetrisation Surgery (if needed): To refine cosmetic outcomes after initial healing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. This technique allows for complete removal of the tumour with clear margins. It often enables wider excision than a standard lumpectomy, reducing the chance of needing further surgery.
Yes, in most cases radiotherapy is recommended after breast-conserving surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
The operated breast will usually be smaller and lifted. In most cases, the opposite breast is also reshaped for symmetry.
Yes. Follow-up imaging is carried out as normal
As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, bleeding, poor wound healing, changes in nipple sensation, and asymmetry. All risks are fully discussed in your pre-operative consultation.
Smoking increases the risk of complications and delays healing. We strongly recommend stopping before surgery.
Why Choose Mr Milligan?
Mr Milligan is a leading oncoplastic and cosmetic breast surgeon based in Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead, with extensive experience in therapeutic mammoplasty and breast-conserving cancer surgery. He specialises in combining safe cancer treatment with techniques that preserve, or even enhance, the appearance of the breasts
Book Your Private Consultation
If you’re considering a Breast Implant Removal in Newcastle or Gateshead, book a consultation with Mr Milligan to explore your options and receive a personalised treatment plan.
