New Breast Surgery Preserves What Matters Most: Your Quality of Life

El Camino Health is among the first in the region to offer breast cancer patients endoscopic nipple-sparing mastectomy (E-NSM). This minimally invasive breast surgery uses a single small incision in a less visible area to preserve patients’ nipple and natural chest skin. The hidden scar means women with qualifying breast cancer can return to everyday life feeling confident and close to their natural body.

Due to advances in early detection and targeted treatments, the 5-year relative survival rate of localized (early-stage) breast cancer is 99%, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

“With the majority of patients surviving early stage breast cancer, the question becomes, how do they want to live and feel afterwards?” said Dr. Kaye Lu, a Breast Surgical Oncologist who pioneered bringing this technique to El Camino Health. “Because of the hidden scar, they don’t have to be reminded of their cancer diagnosis every day when they look in the mirror.”

Advanced Surgical Expertise

Currently, about one in eight women develop breast cancer in their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society. Despite the decline in death rates, breast cancer is rising among younger women, and research indicates that increased screening and earlier detection alone do not explain the trend.

Breast Surgical Oncologists, Kaye Lu, MD, MPH, Tran Ho, DO, FSSO, FACS, and Preeti Farmah, MD are performing this transformational surgery. This all-female, fellowship-trained team of doctors are certified in endoscopic nipple-sparing mastectomies.

“We are focused on delivering advanced cancer care close to home,” said Dr. Ho, who helped lead implementation of the technique at El Camino Health. “Our multidisciplinary breast cancer program brings coordinated, patient-centered care through high-risk screening, navigation support, reconstructive services and survivorship care.”

Choosing the best care based on the patient

When breast cancer is diagnosed, a team of specialized doctors work closely with the patient to recommend options for their care. E-NSM may not be appropriate for all patients. The team considers:

●Tumor characteristics and location.

●Progression of their cancer.

●Woman’s overall anatomy.

●Breast and nipple size and shape.

●Overall treatment goals.

“We’re continuing to expand what we can offer patients so that care can be more individualized,” said Dr. Lu, “Every patient is unique in what they want or need in their cancer care and this approach allows us to maintain the same standards of cancer care, in a way that is meaningful to their recovery and how they feel about themselves.”

How has the nipple-sparing mastectomy improved?

A conventional nipple-sparing mastectomy is traditionally performed through a large open incision made along the bottom of the breast.

Patients who qualify for an endoscopic nipple-sparing mastectomy go into the operating room where the surgeon uses a camera to work through a small incision, less than four centimeters on the outer side of the breast, under the arm. The surgeons remove the cancer and breast tissue while preserving the patient’s skin and nipple. When the breast surgeon completes their part, a reconstructive surgeon typically steps in to insert a tissue expander or implant to give shape to the skin and nipple.

Most patients go home the same day of their surgery to recover. The fact that they once had cancer is less visible, to themselves and others.

“Every patient deserves treatment that not only prioritizes high-quality cancer care but also supports how they feel about themselves,” said Dr. Farmah. “Keeping patients healthy while helping them achieve their best quality of life is our top priority.”

After skin cancers, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women. However, it is not the most deadly, due to advancing science.

About El Camino Health

El Camino Health is an independent, not-for-profit, community-based health system with two acute care hospitals and 28 physician offices serving Silicon Valley and the South Bay with a mission to heal, relieve suffering and advance wellness. For more than 60 years, we have pursued medical invention, from pioneering early digital health records to performing robotic-assisted surgeries. By putting the most advanced tools in the hands of skilled healthcare professionals, we work with patients to solve health challenges and deliver care with a human touch. At El Camino Health, Togethering™ is the path to healing.

El Camino Health is among fewer than two percent of hospitals nationwide to achieve five Magnet® Designations for nursing excellence and was named one of the World’s Best Hospitals 2026 by Newsweek.

Key Services Include:

●Cancer care

●Cardiovascular care

●Maternity care

●Mental health and addiction services

●Orthopedics

●Pulmonology

●Urology

●Women's health

To learn more, visit elcaminohealth.org.