Advances in Minimally Invasive & Oncoplastic Breast Surgery

Breast-Conserving Surgery (Lumpectomy)

Breast-conserving surgery, also known as a lumpectomy, removes the tumour along with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue while preserving most of the breast. This procedure is commonly recommended for early-stage breast cancer and is often followed by radiation therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

A sentinel lymph node biopsy identifies and removes the first few lymph nodes that breast cancer is most likely to spread to. This technique allows surgeons to evaluate whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes while reducing the need for extensive lymph node removal, which can help lower the risk of complications such as arm swelling (lymphedema).

What Is Oncoplastic Breast Surgery?

Oncoplastic breast surgery combines breast cancer removal with reconstructive surgical techniques to preserve or restore the natural appearance of the breast. This approach aims to achieve two important goals at the same time:

• Effective cancer removal.
• Maintaining breast shape, symmetry and cosmetic outcomes.

Oncoplastic surgery may be recommended when a larger amount of breast tissue needs to be removed or when the tumour is located in an area that may significantly affect breast appearance. Depending on the situation, oncoplastic techniques may include:

• Reshaping remaining breast tissue after tumour removal to maintain natural contour.
• Breast reduction or breast lift techniques to improve symmetry between both breasts.
• Immediate breast reconstruction, performed during the same surgery as tumour removal in selected cases.

By combining cancer treatment with reconstructive planning, oncoplastic breast surgery can help patients achieve better aesthetic outcomes while maintaining effective cancer care.

What Are the Latest Advances in Breast Surgery?

Advances in surgical technology and planning have improved how breast cancer is treated today. Modern techniques allow surgeons to remove tumours more precisely while preserving healthy tissue and supporting improved cosmetic outcomes. Some of the latest developments include:

Improved imaging and tumour localisation

Advanced imaging techniques help surgeons accurately locate and remove breast tumours, even when they are very small or difficult to feel during physical examination.

Improved tumour localisation can support more precise surgery and better preservation of surrounding breast tissue.

Skin-sparing and nipple-sparing techniques

In selected cases, surgeons may use skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomy techniques, which preserve more of the natural breast skin and nipple.

These approaches can significantly improve breast reconstruction outcomes and overall cosmetic appearance after surgery.

Refined breast-conserving surgery methods

Advances in surgical planning and oncoplastic techniques allow surgeons to remove larger tumours while still maintaining breast shape. This means that more patients may be candidates for breast-conserving surgery rather than full mastectomy, depending on their specific diagnosis.

Seek Advanced Breast Cancer Care with Maven Surgery

Advances in minimally invasive and oncoplastic breast surgery are transforming breast cancer treatment by allowing surgeons to remove cancer effectively while preserving breast appearance whenever possible. These modern techniques can help many patients achieve effective cancer treatment with improved cosmetic outcomes and smoother recovery.

Maven Surgery offers personalised breast cancer care supported by advanced surgical techniques and comprehensive diagnostic services. Dr Chong Chee Keong, a dual-fellowship-trained surgeon with more than 20 years of experience, is dedicated to helping patients achieve effective cancer treatment while preserving quality of life and breast appearance whenever possible. Contact our clinic to schedule a consultation and learn more about minimally invasive and oncoplastic breast surgery options.

Meet Our Specialist

Dr Chong Chee Keong Breast, Colorectal and General Surgeon MBBS (Singapore), FRCS (Edinburgh), FRCS (Glasgow), FAMS (Singapore) Specialist Accreditation in Intensive Care Medicine Specialists Accreditation Board, Medical Director & Senior Consultant

Dr Chong Chee Keong is a Breast, Colorectal and General Surgeon with over 20 years of clinical experience. Dual-fellowship-trained and highly accredited, he founded Maven Surgery with a commitment to elevating the standard of care for breast and colorectal cancers, the two most common cancers affecting women and men.

Dr Chong works closely with multidisciplinary teams of surgical, medical and radiation oncologists and remains actively involved in international cancer conferences to stay at the forefront of advancing techniques. He has a strong focus on minimally invasive surgery, recognising the importance of preserving self-image while maintaining treatment safety and effectiveness.

FAQs About Advances in Modern Breast Surgery