Oncoplastic Breast Cancer Surgery in Toowoomba

Subspecialist breast cancer surgery that prioritises cancer outcomes and long-term quality of life

Breast cancer surgery is not one-size-fits-all. Surgical decisions affect not only cancer outcomes, but also body image, confidence, and long-term wellbeing.

Oncoplastic breast cancer surgery combines sound cancer surgery with advanced surgical planning techniques to achieve safe cancer removal while preserving and where appropriate, improving breast shape and symmetry.

In Toowoomba and the Darling Downs, access to true oncoplastic breast cancer surgery allows patients to receive the same depth of expertise available in major metropolitan cancer centres, close to home.

What is oncoplastic breast cancer surgery?

Oncoplastic breast cancer surgery integrates principles of plastic and reconstructive surgery into standard breast cancer operations.

This approach may be used during:

• Breast conserving surgery (lumpectomy)
• Partial mastectomy
• Selected mastectomy procedures
• Surgery for larger tumours or complex breast anatomy

Oncoplastic techniques aim to:

• Allow wider tumour excision where needed
• Reduce breast distortion after surgery
• Improve scar placement and breast shape
• Support symmetry between breasts
• Minimise the need for further corrective surgery

Importantly, oncoplastic surgery does not compromise cancer treatment it is planned around oncological safety first.

Why subspecialist oncoplastic training matters

Oncoplastic breast surgery requires specific additional training, experience, and case volume beyond general breast surgery.

A surgeon with subspecialist oncoplastic training is experienced in:

• Tumour biology and breast cancer staging
• Surgical margin planning
• Breast anatomy and aesthetics
• Incision placement and tissue rearrangement
• Coordinating surgery with radiation and medical oncology

This level of training allows surgical decisions to be made at the first operation, reducing the likelihood of:

• Avoidable re-operations
• Poor cosmetic outcomes
• Delayed adjuvant treatment

In regional settings, access to subspecialist training can make a meaningful difference to patient experience and outcomes.

Dr Peter O’Donohue, Subspecialist breast cancer surgery in Toowoomba

Dr Peter O’Donohue is a Specialist General Surgeon with additional training and a focused clinical practice in breast cancer surgery, melanoma surgery, and skin cancer surgery, including oncoplastic breast surgical techniques.

He is a full member of Breast Surgeons of Australia and New Zealand (BreastSurgANZ) and has undertaken advanced training in contemporary breast cancer surgical care.

Dr O’Donohue consults and operates privately at St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital, and also holds a public appointment as a Consultant General Surgeon at Toowoomba Base Hospital, with outreach services to Kingaroy Hospital.

This combination of subspecialist focus and regional experience allows patients to access advanced breast cancer surgery without travelling to metropolitan centres.

Who may benefit from oncoplastic breast cancer surgery?

Oncoplastic techniques may be considered for patients who:

• Have larger tumours relative to breast size
• Require wider excision to achieve clear margins
• Are concerned about breast shape after surgery
• Have tumours in cosmetically sensitive areas
• Wish to minimise visible scarring where possible

Not every patient requires oncoplastic techniques. Part of subspecialist care is helping patients understand which approach is most appropriate for their individual cancer and circumstances.

A thoughtful, coordinated approach to care

At Darling Downs Surgical Oncology, oncoplastic breast cancer surgery is delivered within a coordinated care model that prioritises clarity, communication, and patient choice.

Patients can expect:

• Unhurried consultations
• Clear explanation of surgical options
• Coordination of imaging, biopsy, and surgery
• Transparent discussion of costs
• Collaboration with oncology and radiation teams
• Telehealth consultations for regional patients where appropriate

Care may be coordinated onsite at St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital, while also supporting patient choice across locations and services when required.

Your choice in breast cancer care

If you have received an abnormal breast screening result or a breast cancer diagnosis, you have the right to:

• Seek subspecialist advice
• Ask about oncoplastic options
• Request a second opinion
• Choose where and how you receive care

Early referral to a surgeon with focused breast cancer and oncoplastic experience allows surgical planning to be considered carefully from the outset.

Referrals and consultations

Referrals for oncoplastic breast cancer surgery can be made by GPs, BreastScreen services, and diagnostic clinics. Second opinions are welcomed. If you are a patient seeking clarity about your options, your GP can assist with referral for specialist assessment.