There are several reasons why women opt to undergo breast surgery. For some, it is a matter of achieving a desired look and shape. For others, it is a way to correct a congenital disability or the aftermath of an injury. And then, some undergo surgery for medical reasons, such as to address breast cancer.
Breast surgery can be broadly divided into two categories: cosmetic and corrective. Cosmetic procedures are undertaken for aesthetic reasons, while corrective surgeries are meant to address a functional problem.
This post will look at the most popular types of cosmetic and corrective breast surgery procedures provided by top breast surgeons in London.
- Wide Local Excisions (Lumpectomy)
This is the most common type of breast cancer surgery. It involves removing the cancerous tumour and a margin of healthy tissue around it. The removed tissue is examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. If any are found, more surgery may be needed.
- Sentinel Node Biopsy
A sentinel node biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure to check for lymph node cancer. This is usually done as a follow-up to an abnormal mammogram or breast MRI. During the process, a small incision is made near the armpit, and a special dye is injected into the breast. The dye travels to the lymph nodes and allows the surgeon to identify the sentinel nodes. These nodes are then removed and checked for cancer cells.
- Axillary Node Clearance
Axillary node clearance is a type of breast cancer surgery that involves removing lymph nodes from the armpit area. This surgery is typically done with a mastectomy (removal of the breast) or a lumpectomy (removal of a tumour from the breast). The purpose of axillary node clearance is to determine whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes and to remove any cancerous lymph nodes that may be present.
- Simple and skin-sparing Mastectomy
A Simple or Skin Sparing Mastectomy is a type of breast cancer surgery that removes the cancerous breast tissue while preserving the skin and surrounding tissues. The surgeon will make a small incision in the breast and remove the cancerous tissue while leaving the skin and surrounding tissues intact.
This surgery is often done in cases where the cancer is small and confined to a specific breast area. This surgery is less invasive than a traditional mastectomy and has a lower risk of complications.
- Oncoplastic Procedures and Breast Remodelling
Oncoplastic procedures are usually performed to improve the appearance of the breast following a mastectomy or lumpectomy. This surgery can involve anything from a simple breast lift to a more complex procedure known as a pedicled latissimus dorsi flap.
Breast remodelling is a type of cosmetic surgery performed to improve the overall appearance of the breast. This can involve anything from a simple breast lift to a more complex procedure such as a breast reduction or augmentation.
Both oncoplastic and cosmetic procedures can be performed as standalone procedures or in combination with each other. For example, a woman who has undergone a mastectomy may also opt to have a breast lift and implants to restore her breasts’ fullness and shape.
- Nipple Inversion
Nipple inversion is a type of corrective breast surgery that is used to treat inverted or retracted nipples. Nipple inversion surgery is a relatively simple procedure typically performed as an outpatient procedure.
The surgeon will make a small incision around the edge of the nipple and then release the tissue causing the nipple to be inverted. The incision will then be closed with sutures. Sometimes, the surgeon may also need to shorten the milk ducts.
- Breast Augmentation (Enlargement)
One of the most popular types of cosmetic and corrective breast surgery procedures is breast augmentation, which is also sometimes called breast enlargement. This procedure involves the placement of implants in the breasts to increase their size. Breast augmentation is typically done for aesthetic reasons, but it can also correct a developmental deformity or restore breast volume after weight loss or pregnancy.
- Breast Symmetrisation
Breast symmetry correction is a type of cosmetic breast surgery that is performed to correct breasts that are uneven in size or shape. A few different kinds of surgery can be used to achieve symmetry, depending on the individual case. The most common procedures are breast augmentation, lift, and reduction. In some cases, a combination of these procedures may be used.
- Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with your body. It can also relieve the pain and discomfort associated with large breasts. The surgery is usually done for both cosmetic and medical reasons.
Several techniques can be used for breast reduction surgery, and the best approach for you will depend on your situation. Your surgeon will discuss your options and help you choose the best technique for your needs.
In conclusion, there are many types of breast surgery procedures, both cosmetic and corrective. The most popular types of cosmetic surgery are breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction. The most popular types of corrective surgery are breast reconstruction after Mastectomy and correction of congenital defects. If you have further questions about breast surgery, contact us.
