Innovative Techniques for Breast Surgery

Delayed nipple-sparing mastectomy

If you are not eligible for a nipple-sparing mastectomy, you may be able to undergo a two-stage approach for nipple preservation. With this innovative technique, we can prepare the nipple for preservation in one procedure and remove the underlying breast tissue with a mastectomy in a second procedure.

Immediate reconstruction

Our outstanding breast reconstruction experts can perform many different types of reconstruction at the same time as your mastectomy or lumpectomy, whereas many other centers only perform reconstruction six months after surgery. At Stanford, we are pioneering safer, faster, same-day reconstruction techniques that can achieve excellent cosmetic results.

Same-day mastectomy & ovary surgery

If you have a BRCA (breast cancer susceptibility gene) mutation and are considering a mastectomy as well as an Oophorectomy (ovary removal), we can coordinate with our expert gynecological surgery team to perform both operations at the same time.

Wireless markers

Our breast imaging experts have the technology to place wireless markers inside the breast ahead of surgery, giving you the freedom to schedule your breast-conserving surgery up to 30 days in advance. These markers guide your surgeon to the exact location of the tumor so that your procedure is as effective as possible.

Nerve blocks

At Stanford, we offer nerve blocks as part of our pain management services for women undergoing breast surgery. Nerve blocks can provide additional relief if pain medication after surgery. Our anesthesiology team has a dedicated nerve block practice. We can administer spinal nerve blocks (paravertebral blocks), transversus abdominal plane blocks (TAP blocks), and other neural remedies to keep you comfortable.

Lymphedema monitoring

Lymphedema is a condition of excessive swelling due to fluid buildup that can occur when lymph nodes are damaged or blocked. At Stanford, we take extra measures to monitor your lymph levels before, during, and after radiation treatment for early detection of possible lymphedema.
If any concerns develop, you can receive immediate treatment from our leading Center for Lymphatic and Venous Disorders. Our lymphedema experts have a wealth of experience in restoring the normal volume and texture of areas affected by breast cancer treatment.