Introduction: Why Oncoplastic Surgery Matters
For women diagnosed with breast cancer, lumpectomy or partial mastectomy is often the recommended treatment to remove the tumor while preserving as much breast tissue as possible.
But traditional lumpectomy surgery can leave:
- Indentations or contour deformities
- Significant asymmetry compared to the opposite breast – size and shape
- Distortion after radiation therapy
- Pulling of the nipple in the direction of the lumpectomy defect
This is where oncoplastic breast reconstruction comes in. It combines cancer removal with immediate reshaping, lifting, or reduction of the breast — creating better long-term cosmetic outcomes while still prioritizing cancer safety.
At Jandali Plastic Surgery in Trumbull, CT, I specialize in oncoplastic techniques to help women across Fairfield County and Southern Connecticut avoid deformities and feel whole after cancer surgery.
What Is Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction?
Oncoplastic reconstruction is performed at the same time as lumpectomy or partial mastectomy. It involves:
- Reshaping the breast after tumor removal to maintain contour
- Lifting the breast if it is low or ptotic (sagging)
- Reducing the breast if it is large, so that tissue can be removed symmetrically, while accounting for the volume loss with radiation therapy
The goal is to prevent contour deformities and asymmetry, especially after radiation.
Benefits of Oncoplastic Reconstruction
- Immediate reshaping of the breast during lumpectomy
- Improved symmetry compared to standard lumpectomy alone
- Better long-term appearance after radiation
- Flexibility for breast lift or reduction when needed
- Insurance-covered procedure under federal law
Types of Oncoplastic Reconstruction
1. Volume Displacement Techniques
- The remaining breast tissue is rearranged after tumor removal (lumpectomy)
- Best for women with medium breasts
- Can be combined with breast lift (mastopexy)
2. Reduction Techniques
- When tissue from both breasts is removed to make them symmetric and make radiation easier
- Best for women with large breasts
- Breasts are also lifted at the same time as they are reduced and reconstructed
When a Breast Lift or Reduction Is Performed
Many women undergoing lumpectomy have breasts that are sagging (ptotic) or large.
- Breast lift (mastopexy): If the breasts are low, reshaping and lifting can be performed so the tumor is removed and the breast ends up in a higher, more youthful position.
- Breast reduction: If breasts are large, cancer removal can be combined with reduction for both cancer safety and improved comfort. The opposite breast is often reduced at the same time for symmetry.
My Experience with Oncoplastic Surgery
I’m Dr. Shareef Jandali, a board-certified plastic surgeon with 15 years of experience. The majority of my practice is breast reconstruction. I work closely with breast surgeons in Fairfield County and Southern Connecticut to perform oncoplastic reconstruction at the same time as lumpectomy, ensuring women avoid deformities and have excellent cosmetic outcomes.
Insurance Coverage
Oncoplastic breast reconstruction is always covered by insurance.
This includes:
- Reshaping after lumpectomy or partial mastectomy
- Breast lift or reduction when needed
- Symmetry procedures on the opposite breast
This coverage is guaranteed under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA).
Common Questions About Oncoplastic Reconstruction
Will reshaping affect cancer treatment?
No — oncoplastic surgery is performed with cancer safety as the top priority.
Will radiation affect my results?
Radiation always changes breast tissue, but reshaping at the time of lumpectomy helps minimize deformities.
Can both breasts be lifted or reduced at the same time?
Yes — symmetry procedures are covered by insurance.
What if I already had a lumpectomy without reconstruction?
You may still benefit from delayed procedures, including fat grafting, implants, or reductions (covered in other blogs).
Is oncoplastic surgery safe for all women?
Most women are candidates, though techniques vary depending on tumor size and breast size.
How long is recovery?
Similar to a standard lumpectomy with a few extra days for breast lift or reduction healing.
Patient Testimonials
From Fairfield, CT:
“I was terrified of being left deformed after my lumpectomy. Dr. Jandali reshaped my breast at the same time, and it looks natural — even after radiation. Insurance covered everything.” — L.G., Fairfield, CT
From Shelton, CT:
“My breasts were large and sagging. Dr. Jandali worked with my breast surgeon to remove my cancer and reduce both breasts at the same time. I feel more comfortable and confident than before my diagnosis.” — M.B., Shelton, CT
Serving Southern Connecticut
We provide oncoplastic breast reconstruction for women in:
Trumbull, Fairfield, Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, Shelton, Norwalk, Westport, Weston, Wilton, Easton, Monroe, Oxford, Derby, Ansonia, Seymour, Newtown, Bethel, and Southbury.
Why Choose Jandali Plastic Surgery
- Board-certified plastic surgeon with 15 years of experience and over 150 breast reconstructions performed yearly
- Majority of practice devoted to breast reconstruction
- Expertise in oncoplastic techniques for reshaping, lifting, and reduction
- Close collaboration with breast surgeons and oncologists in Fairfield County
- Insurance navigation support for approvals and coverage
Related Articles in the Breast Reconstruction Blog Series
- Prepectoral Tissue Expander and Implant Reconstruction
- Implant Exchange for Recalled Allergan Textured Implants
- Implant Exchange for Animation Deformity
- Delayed Reconstruction & Revision for Capsular Contracture, Asymmetry, or Poor Results
- Delayed Reconstruction After Lumpectomy & Radiation
- Oncoplastic Reconstruction at Time of Lumpectomy
- Free Nipple Grafts in Implant Reconstruction
- Goldilocks Breast Reconstruction with Free Nipple Grafts
- DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
- Renuva Adipose Matrix for Reconstruction
Call to Action
If you are scheduled for lumpectomy or partial mastectomy, ask about your options for oncoplastic reconstruction. Combining cancer removal with immediate reshaping helps preserve breast contour, lift, and symmetry — and it’s always covered by insurance.
Jandali Plastic Surgery
5520 Park Ave, Suite WP-2-300, Trumbull, CT 06611
203-374-0310
