Treatments - Breast Surgery

Skin Sparing Mastectomy / Skin Reducing Mastectomy / Nipple Sparing Mastectomy

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There are multiple variations of a skin sparing mastectomy (SSM), an advanced surgical technique used in the treatment of breast cancer. It involves the removal of breast tissue, including the nipple-areola complex (unless nipple sparing mastectomy), while preserving the overlying skin envelope. A skin reducing mastectomy is a preferred option in women with heavier or droopier breasts (ptotic) who want to be smaller in size following a breast reconstruction. This approach aims to achieve optimal oncological outcomes while maintaining a cosmetically favourable breast appearance.

SSM is designed to maximise breast cosmesis by preserving the natural skin envelope. This allows for immediate breast reconstruction following mastectomy, minimising the need for additional surgeries and optimising aesthetic outcomes.

At a Glance

Treatment time:

Approx. 90 minutes

Anaesthetic:

General anaesthetic

Return to work:

4-8 weeks

Duration:

Treatment over several weeks or months

Final results:

Breast cancer management

About This Treatment

Candidates for SSM typically include women with early-stage breast cancer or those undergoing risk-reducing mastectomy.

Factors such as tumour size, location, and proximity to the skin, as well as patient preferences and cosmetic goals, are considered in the decision-making process. Nipple sparing mastectomy may be an option in risk-reducing surgery where there is healthy breast tissue and no cancerous cells. It can also be considered in some cancer surgeries where the disease is localised or away from the nipple and areolar complex.

The process begins with a comprehensive evaluation by a multidisciplinary team of breast cancer specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and plastic surgeons. This collaborative approach ensures that the treatment plan is tailored to meet your individual needs and preferences

During SSM, your surgeon makes an incision along the natural crease of the breast or along the border of the areola to access the underlying breast tissue. This minimises visible scarring and preserves the aesthetic appearance of the breast. Your surgeon carefully removes the breast tissue, including the tumour, while preserving the overlying skin envelope. Special care is taken to avoid damage to the skin and underlying blood vessels to maintain adequate blood supply for optimal wound healing. In some cases, the nipple-areola complex may also be removed to ensure complete eradication of cancerous tissue. However, efforts are made to preserve the nipple-areola complex whenever possible to enhance cosmetic outcomes.

Following mastectomy, immediate breast reconstruction is often performed in the same surgical setting. This may involve the placement of breast implants or own tissue (autologous tissue flaps) to restore breast volume and shape, providing patients with immediate aesthetic benefits.

After surgery, patients receive comprehensive postoperative care, including pain management, wound care, and monitoring for potential complications. Close follow-up appointments allow our medical team to assess healing progress, address any concerns, and provide support throughout the recovery period.

SSM aims to achieve complete removal of cancerous tissue from the breast while preserving the overlying skin envelope. By ensuring adequate surgical margins and minimising the risk of cancer recurrence, SSM contributes to improved oncological outcomes for patients like you, with breast cancer.

One of the primary goals of SSM is to optimise cosmetic outcomes by preserving the natural skin envelope and facilitating immediate breast reconstruction. By maintaining breast shape and contour, minimising visible scarring, and preserving nipple-areola complex when feasible, SSM enhances patient satisfaction and quality of life.

The psychological impact of SSM can be significant, as it allows women like you to undergo cancer treatment without sacrificing their self-image and confidence. By preserving breast aesthetics and offering immediate reconstruction, SSM minimises the psychological burden associated with mastectomy, empowering you to embrace life beyond cancer with resilience.

While SSM may impact breast sensation and mobility, most women adapt well to the changes over time. Through rehabilitation and supportive care, patients can regain functional independence and maintain a good quality of life following surgery.

Skin-sparing mastectomy represents a significant advancement in breast cancer surgery, offering women like you the opportunity to achieve optimal oncological outcomes while preserving breast aesthetics. By combining meticulous surgical technique with immediate breast reconstruction, SSM provides patients with comprehensive care and favourable cosmetic results. With the expertise of multidisciplinary teams at specialised medical centres, such as BBG, SSM continues to evolve as a safe and effective treatment option for women with breast cancer, empowering you, and others like you, to navigate the cancer journey with confidence and dignity.

Treatment Image

Frequently Asked Questions

The medical team at BBG comprises board-certified breast cancer specialists and oncoplastic surgeons with extensive expertise in skin-sparing mastectomy. Their multidisciplinary qualifications ensure comprehensive care, precise surgical technique, and optimal cosmetic outcomes for patients undergoing this advanced procedure.

Skin-sparing mastectomy may be recommended for women with early-stage breast cancer or those undergoing risk-reducing mastectomy. Candidates typically have tumours located away from the skin, allowing for preservation of the skin envelope. Patients seeking optimal cosmetic outcomes and immediate breast reconstruction may also be considered.

Common side effects of skin-sparing mastectomy include temporary pain, swelling, bruising, and changes in breast sensation. Some patients may experience scarring or numbness in the surgical area. Less frequent complications may include infection, skin flap necrosis (unhealthy skin flaps), bleeding, or implant-related issues. Close monitoring and postoperative care help manage these side effects effectively.

The time frame for a treatment plan involving skin-sparing mastectomy varies based on factors such as tumour size, reconstruction type, and postoperative recovery. Typically, the process, from initial evaluation to complete recovery, may span several weeks to months, ensuring comprehensive care and optimal outcomes.

How much does Skin Sparing Mastectomy / Skin Reducing Mastectomy / Nipple Sparing Mastectomy cost at Birmingham Breast Group?

As each case is unique, the cost of treatment at BBG may vary depending on individual factors. We tailor our approach to meet your specific needs, ensuring that you receive personalised care and comprehensive support throughout your journey.

Initial consultation

please enquire

All consultations are conducted in strict privacy and all information is confidential.

Surgery costs from

based on consultation

Our personalised treatment plans are meticulously tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.

Skin Sparing Mastectomy / Skin Reducing Mastectomy / Nipple Sparing Mastectomy

Our Specialist Team

Meet the dedicated professionals at Birmingham Breast Group – committed to excellence, compassion, and personalised care for every patient.

View Our Full Team

BSc, MBBS, MSc, MRCS (Ed), FRCS (Eng), MD, FEBS

Naren Basu

Lead Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon

Meet Naren

BSc, BM, MRCP, FRCR, MD

Daniel Henderson

Consultant Clinical Oncologist

Meet Daniel

MBChB, PhD, FRCS (Eng)

Ms Salena Bains

Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon

Meet Salena

Consultant Clinical oncologist

Dr James Good

PhD, FRCR

Meet James

BSc, PhD, FRCP

Professor Daniel Rea

Professor of Medical Oncology

Meet Daniel

MRCP, FRCR

Dr Sara Meade

Consultant Clinical Oncologist

Meet Sara

BSc, MBBS, MRCS, FRCR

Dr Faisal Majid

Consultant Radiologist

Meet Faisal

MSc, PhD, FRCPath

Dr Abeer Shaaban

Path Consultant Pathologist

Meet Abeer

Bsc, MBBS, MD (Pathology) FRCPath

Dr Rachna Awasthi

Path Consultant Pathologist

Meet Rachna

 

Dawn Larkin

Breast Care Specialist Nurse

Meet Dawn

 

Ruth Tracey

Macmillan Breast Health Care Assistant

Meet Ruth

 

Dr Nadia Alishah

Job Title Here

Meet Nadia

Qualifications Here

Gill Farrington

Breast Care Specialist Nurse

Meet Gill
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Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020

Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.

View More Reviews
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Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020

Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.

View More Reviews
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Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019

I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.

View More Reviews
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Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019

I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.

View More Reviews
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Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019

Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.

View More Reviews
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Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020

I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold

View More Reviews
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Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019

I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019

I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019

I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019

Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020

I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019

I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.

View More Reviews
logo

Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020

Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.

View More Reviews
View More Reviews

Our Locations

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Priory Hospital Edgbaston

Priory Road, Edgbaston, B5 7UG

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Spire Parkway Solihull Image

Spire Parkway Solihull

1 Damson Parkway, Solihull, B91 2PP

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Spire Little Aston Image

Spire Little Aston

Little Aston Hall Drive, Sutton Coldfield, B74 3UP

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The Harborne Hospital

Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham, B15 2FQ

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