ABSTRACT
Oncoplastic surgery of the breast has gained universal acceptance from both breast and plastic surgeons. The purpose of oncoplastic surgery is to perform the ablative component of surgery together with the reconstruction prior to radiation therapy to minimize abnormalities of breast contour and surgical complications as well as improving clinical outcomes. The timing of oncoplastic repair is ultimately based upon whether or not clear margins are obtained at the initial excision. Reconstructive procedures tend to have improved surgical and aesthetic outcomes when performed prior to radiation therapy when compared to procedures which follow radiation therapy. Options for repair of partial mastectomy defects include volume displacement and volume replacement techniques. The advantage of a delayed-immediate repair before radiation is absence of any concerns about final pathologic margins.
