Oncoplastic Surgery Concept for Skin Cancer Tumors.

The aim of this Viewpoint is to show the importance of understanding and treating skin cancer tumors in a holistic way, preserving not only the oncological results as the main object, but also the functional and aesthetic components of the therapeutic approach.

Oncoplastic surgery has been evolving as a standard of care in breast tumor interventions. Since its first description by John Bostwick III in 1996 as oncoplastic breast surgery (OBS),[1] a wide array of definitions and limitations has been proposed by different authors or scientific societies. Nowadays, the term oncoplastic surgery is directly related to breast surgery. For example, the American Society of Breast Surgeons agreed to define oncoplastic surgery as “a form of breast-conservation surgery that includes oncologic resection with a partial mastectomy, ipsilateral reconstruction using volume displacement or volume replacement techniques, with possible contralateral symmetry surgery when appropriate.”[2] The latest articles in the OBS field analyze the reasons or factors that may obstruct or delay the standardization of this therapeutic approach.[3] This fact might reveal that despite being a well-known concept in the academic field, it still lacks the proper implementation for serving patients.

Many skin or other soft-tissue malignancies may be approached in a similar fashion. Not forgetting that the main goals of first aid are to preserve life, prevent further illness or injury, and promote recovery,[4] an adequate oncoplastic approach must consider optimizing oncological resection, restoring functionality, and promoting an aesthetic outcome. Many authors contemplate the aesthetic aspect of OBS due to its relevant importance in self-presentation, intimacy, and sexuality as a functional outcome.[2] This statement is applicable to interventions performed on the face for malignant skin tumors, for example. These surgical methodologies may be defined as “oncoplastic skin and soft tissue surgery” or just “oncoplastic skin surgery,” depending on the malignancy origin.

Despite not generating a novel technique for skin cancer surgery or soft-tissue malignancy interventions, the approach to these pathologies under the concept of oncoplastic surgery may lead to improved outcomes in the quality of life sphere, maintaining high oncological, reconstructive, and aesthetic standards of care.

DISCLOSURE

The author has no financial interest to declare in relation to this content of this article.