What is Hidden Scar™ breast cancer surgery?

Hidden Scar™ breast cancer surgery is a type of breast cancer surgery where the incision sites are hidden, and scars are not visible when the incision heals. The Hidden Scar approach can be performed for both nipple sparing mastectomy or lumpectomy procedures. The goal of the procedure is to leave little trace of the surgery after the incision site heals.

Who is a candidate for Hidden Scar™ breast cancer surgery?

You may be a candidate for a Hidden Scar breast cancer surgery if your:

  • Tumor is small compared to the size of your breast
  • Tumor is confined to a specific area of the breast
  • Tumor is small enough where your surgeon can completely remove the tumor as well as some margin of normal tissue around it
  • Cancerous cells have not spread to the nipple

What to expect during Hidden Scar™ breast cancer surgery

The main difference in what to expect with Hidden Scar surgery vs traditional mastectomy or lumpectomy is where your surgeon makes the incision.

During a Hidden Scar lumpectomy surgery, your surgeon will make the incision in your armpit, in the crease under your breast or in the areola. During a Hidden Scar mastectomy procedure, your surgeon will make the incision in the crease under your breast.

Find a Hidden Scar™ surgeon nearby

Mercy Health locations that can treat you