Surgical Services
Breast Surgery in Melbourne
Foong is a highly experienced and formally trained oncoplastic breast surgeon. His goal is to offer each patient safe, effective cancer care with a strong focus on preserving or improving breast appearance, where possible. Below is an overview of the surgeries Foong performs, tailored to the unique needs of every patient.
Oncoplastic Breast Surgery
What is Oncoplastic Surgery?
Oncoplastic surgery combines oncological (cancer) and plastic surgery techniques to not only remove breast cancer but also maintain or enhance the shape of the breast. This advanced approach can be applied to many types of breast surgeries.
Foong has formal training in oncoplastic surgery, one of the few surgeons with local and international fellowships, allowing him to safely remove cancer while using specialised techniques to improve cosmetic outcomes—resulting in less noticeable scars, better breast symmetry, and fewer mastectomies.
Wide Local Excision (Lumpectomy)
This is a breast-conserving surgery where the cancerous lump (tumour) is removed, along with a small rim of healthy tissue. The goal is to remove all the cancer while preserving as much of the breast as possible.
Foong’s oncoplastic skills allow him to:
- Remove larger cancers without compromising the breast’s appearance
- Place incisions in discreet locations to minimise visible scarring
- Reshape the breast for a natural look post-surgery
- Help reduce the need for full mastectomy in many cases
Breast Lesion Localisation
Sometimes, breast abnormalities are visible on imaging (like a mammogram or ultrasound) but cannot be felt during a physical exam. In these cases, a localisation technique is used to guide the surgeon.
Common localisation methods include:
- Magseed® or Pintuition™ (tiny seed markers placed by a radiologist)
- Hookwires (thin wires placed into the lesion area)
Each method has its own benefits, and Foong is adept in all of them.
Axillary (Armpit) Surgery
During breast cancer treatment, it’s often important to assess or remove lymph nodes in the axilla (armpit), which is usually the first place breast cancer spreads.
Types of axillary surgery Foong performs:
- Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy – Removal of the first few lymph nodes that drain the breast
- Axillary Clearance (Dissection) – Removal of more lymph nodes when necessary
- Targeted Axillary Dissection – A newer, more precise technique in selected cases
Foong will discuss which type of lymph node surgery is needed based on your diagnosis and stage of cancer.
Mastectomy (Breast Removal Surgery)
In some cases, removing the entire breast (mastectomy) is necessary. Foong is experienced in all forms of mastectomy and will guide you to the best option based on your condition, preferences, and cosmetic considerations.
Types of mastectomy include:
- Simple Mastectomy – Removal of breast tissue without skin or nipple preservation
- Skin-Sparing Mastectomy – Preserves most of the skin for better reconstruction outcomes
- Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy – Retains the nipple and areola for a more natural appearance
Goldilocks Mastectomy – A technique that uses remaining skin and tissue to create a smaller, natural breast shape without implants
Therapeutic Mammoplasty
This surgery combines breast cancer removal with breast reduction techniques, making it ideal for women with larger breasts. It allows for:
- Wide excision of the tumour
- Breast reshaping and lifting
- Symmetry with the opposite breast (if needed)
Therapeutic mammoplasty can significantly reduce the need for mastectomy while improving both cosmetic and functional outcomes.
Breast Reduction
Foong also performs breast reduction surgery for women experiencing discomfort due to large breasts, including:
- Chronic back or neck pain
- Skin irritation or shoulder grooves from bra straps
- Postural issues or physical limitations
Breast reduction can improve quality of life and confidence. Please note that Foong offers this procedure in private hospital settings only.
Lipofilling (Fat Transfer to the Breast)
Lipofilling, also called fat grafting, involves:
- Harvesting fat through liposuction (commonly from thighs or abdomen)
- Processing the fat
- Injecting it into the breast for volume or contour correction
Applications include:
- Filling in defects after lumpectomy
- Enhancing the shape during or after reconstruction
- Improving scarring or asymmetry
Foong was among the first breast surgeons in Melbourne to adopt this innovative technique, making him one of the most experienced in its use.
Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction helps restore the breast shape after mastectomy. The types of breast reconstruction include the following:
Implant-Based Reconstruction
- Uses silicone implants
- Can be placed at the time of mastectomy or later
- May be combined with mesh or tissue support
Foong has extensive training in implant-based reconstruction and can offer this to suitable patients.
Autologous (Tissue-Based) Reconstruction
- Uses your own tissue, usually from the abdomen (most common form is DIEP flap)
- Offers a more natural feel and appearance
- Performed by high-volume plastic surgeons in Foong’s trusted network
Foong takes time to educate patients on all options, ensuring that decisions are based on personal goals and medical suitability—not on a one-size-fits-all approach.
Male Gynaecomastia Surgery
Gynaecomastia is the enlargement of breast tissue in males, often caused by hormonal changes, medications, or other factors. It can occur at any age and may lead to discomfort or self-consciousness.
Foong will assess the underlying cause and discuss whether surgery is appropriate. Surgical treatment can restore a flatter, more masculine chest contour.
General Surgery Operations
In addition to breast surgery, Foong offers general surgical procedures including:
- Removal of skin lesions (e.g. cysts, lipomas, skin cancers)
- Gallbladder surgery (for gallstones or inflammation)
- Hernia repair (inguinal, umbilical, incisional)
Treatment of lumps and bumps under the skin
Why Choose Dr. Foong Loh?
- Highly skilled and experienced surgeon
- Extensive breast surgical training in Australia and overseas
- Offers advanced techniques tailored to individual needs
- Prioritises both cancer outcomes and cosmetic results
- Patient-centred approach with clear communication and care