The Evolution of Modern Breast Surgery

Abstract

Breast surgery is changing from a purely resectional specialty to one in which aesthetic outcomes are becoming increasingly important. Breast conservation surgery has moved beyond ablation to techniques that maintain or improve breast shape. Knowledge and surgical skills, traditionally the remit of plastic surgeons, are crucial to the success of these new techniques and are being adopted and adapted by a new breed of oncoplastic surgeons. Professional boundaries are becoming blurred as new breast surgeons are trained both oncologically and in plastic surgery. Breast surgeons have welcomed the opportunity for interface training but plastic surgery trainees are underrepresented in applications and successful appointment to oncoplastic fellowships. This article aims to summarise the development of breast surgery as a separate specialty and how improved training, financial pressures and the attitudes of surgeons may influence the future of oncoplastic surgery.