Minimally Invasive Surgery in Breast Reconstruction: The Past and Future

Abstract

Restoring breast aesthetics and minimizing morbidity while providing excellent oncologic control has been the driving force in the evolution of both breast cancer and breast reconstructive surgery. This chapter will discuss recent developments using minimally invasive techniques to further move the needle towards even better patient outcomes. We outline the technical considerations and evidence behind minimally invasive breast reconstructive procedures including laparoscopic deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap harvest, robotic DIEP flap harvest, and robotic latissimus dorsi flap harvest. We also introduce minimally invasive breast cancer surgery including robotic mastectomy. Finally, this chapter discusses future applications of emerging technology and the controversies surrounding the widespread adoption of minimally invasive techniques in breast cancer and breast reconstructive surgery.