Middlesex Hospital Breast Surgeon Performs New Technique

RECONSTRUCTION DURING LUMPECTOMY PRESERVES NATURAL LOOK OF TISSUE.

Patients who undergo breast surgery are naturally concerned about the cosmetic changes that come with it. Leah Bassin, M.D., a breast surgery specialist at the Middlesex Hospital Surgical Alliance, is now helping women who undergo lumpectomies feel more comfortable about it.

“Breast tissue does not grow back,” says Dr. Bassin. “When a tumor is removed during a lumpectomy procedure, it leaves an empty space in the breast, that can change the look of the breast.”

Oncoplastics essentially involves filling any “gaps” in the breast left by the removal of the tumor by reshaping the surrounding tissue, preserving a natural look.

“With the oncoplastic technique, my goal is to leave the breast looking like it did before surgery,” explains Dr. Bassin, “with as small a scar as possible.”

Dr. Bassin performs both the lumpectomy and the oncoplasty at the same time, which can also be a big plus for the patient. The entire procedure usually takes only about an hour.

In addition to the oncoplasty procedure, Dr. Bassin provides patients with complete breast care, including:

• High-risk patients
• Atypia (presence of abnormal cells in breast tissue)
• Consultation for abnormal breast imaging
• Breast cancer
• Benign breast disease
• Breast pain
• Breast infections

Dr. Bassin also collaborates with Middlesex Hospital breast surgeon, Dr. Andrea Malon, as part of the Surgical Alliance; along with local plastic surgeons.

“Providing patient-centered care is extremely important to me, adds Dr. Bassin. “I am with my patients every step of the way.”