Breast Cancer Surgery in Birmingham

Understanding Breast Cancer Surgery

Breast cancer surgery is a critical treatment for many people diagnosed with the disease. The specific type of surgery recommended depends on several factors, including the stage and grade of the cancer, its size and location within the breast and individual patient preferences. Mr Vatish is highly skilled in performing a range of breast cancer surgical procedures, including:

• Breast-Conserving Surgery (BCS): Also known as a lumpectomy or wide local excision, this involves the removal of the tumour and a margin of surrounding healthy tissue. Mr Vatish employs oncoplastic techniques during BCS to reshape the remaining breast tissue, aiming for a natural appearance and symmetry with the other breast. His expertise in chest wall perforator flaps allows for advanced breast-conserving approaches in suitable patients, potentially avoiding the need for a mastectomy.
• Mastectomy: This involves the surgical removal of the entire breast. There are different types of mastectomies, and Mr Vatish will discuss the most appropriate option based on your specific situation. In cases requiring mastectomy, he offers immediate breast reconstruction using either implants or the patient’s own tissue (autologous reconstruction), often as part of an oncoplastic approach.
• Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: This procedure is crucial for determining if the cancer has spread to the nearby lymph nodes. Mr Vatish performs sentinel lymph node biopsies to accurately stage the cancer while minimising the potential for lymphoedema (swelling) associated with more extensive lymph node removal.
• Axillary Lymph Node Dissection: If cancer cells are found in the sentinel lymph nodes, a more comprehensive removal of lymph nodes in the armpit may be necessary. Mr Vatish is experienced in performing this procedure when indicated.
• Oncoplastic Surgery: As a specialist in oncoplastic breast surgery, Mr Vatish combines cancer removal with plastic surgery techniques to optimise the cosmetic outcome. This is integral to his approach in both breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy with reconstruction, aiming to improve body image and quality of life for his patients.