MedStar Montgomery Medical Center in Olney has become the site of Maryland’s first endoscopic nipple-sparing mastectomy, according to MedStar Health.
Breast surgeon Jennifer Son, MD, performed the procedure in early September, introducing a minimally invasive surgical option for select patients undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer. The first patient was a woman in her late 30s for whom preserving her appearance was an important part of her treatment and recovery plan.
Unlike a traditional mastectomy, the endoscopic nipple-sparing procedure allows the surgeon to remove breast tissue while preserving the outer skin, nipple and areola when medically appropriate. The procedure is performed through a small incision near the underarm using an endoscope – a thin tube equipped with a small camera – along with specialized surgical instruments.
Breast reconstruction can then be performed during the same operation. According to MedStar Health, the approach can provide a more natural appearance while minimizing visible scarring and avoiding additional operations.
The procedure is not appropriate for every patient. Factors considered include breast size and shape, the amount of natural sagging, and the size and location of the tumor. In general, potential candidates may include patients with small to medium-sized breasts, limited sagging and tumors that have not spread to the skin, chest wall, muscles or nipple area.
“Breast cancer surgery is not one-size-fits-all,” Son said. “For appropriately selected patients, endoscopic nipple-sparing mastectomy gives us another option to consider when developing a surgical plan that takes into account their cancer, anatomy, reconstruction goals and preferences.” Son said the priority remains providing safe and effective cancer treatment while helping patients understand the surgical options available to them.
MedStar Montgomery Medical Center offers breast cancer services ranging from imaging and biopsies to surgery, reconstruction, genetic counseling and testing, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, clinical trials and post-treatment support. The addition of the endoscopic nipple-sparing procedure allows eligible patients to receive the minimally invasive surgical option locally in Olney.
