Breast Cancer Surgery
Hidden Scar
Breast surgeons at Good Samaritan Medical Center are expanding options for women in Palm Beach County and surrounding communities with a procedure that is designed to effectively treat cancer while optimizing cosmetic results. The hospital’s Breast Institute is the first in South Florida to be named a Center of Excellence for Hidden Scar™ Breast Cancer Surgery, an advanced approach for nipple sparing mastectomies and lumpectomies.
What is Hidden Scar Breast Cancer Surgery?
Hidden Scar Breast Cancer Surgery is an advanced, minimally invasive approach in which breast surgeons remove cancerous tissue through a single incision made in an inconspicuous area, with the goal of preserving the natural shape of the breast while reducing visible scarring. This approach is designed to help patients achieve optimal clinical and cosmetic outcomes.
The Hidden Scar approach may also ease the emotional impact of breast cancer surgery, as it hides scars, minimizing the daily reminder of a breast cancer diagnosis.
Am I a candidate?
Hidden Scar Breast Cancer Surgery may be appropriate for certain breast cancer patients undergoing nipple sparing mastectomy or breast conserving (lumpectomy) procedures. Qualification depends on a patient’s tumor size and location, breast shape and size, so it is important to discuss all your options with your surgeon to find out if Hidden Scar Surgery is right for you.
Types of Hidden Scar Surgeries
Hidden Scar Lumpectomy
In a Hidden Scar Lumpectomy, there are three different locations for a lumpectomy incision that may make the scar less visible:
- inframammary fold (the natural crease beneath the breast)
- along the areola border
- axilla (armpit)
Hidden Scar Mastectomy
There is one incision location for a Hidden Scar Nipple Sparing Mastectomy that may make the scar less visible:
- inframammary fold (the natural crease beneath the breast)
Additionally, this procedure may be considered for patients opting for a prophylactic (preventive) mastectomy because of a diagnosed BRCA gene mutation.
