Robotic Surgery Consolidates Breast Cancer Care Through Single Incision

Dr. Lucy De La Cruz, chief of the Breast Surgery program, collaborated with plastic surgeon Dr. Kenneth Fan to execute the procedure. Unlike traditional techniques that require incisions in the armpit or along the chest wall, this method utilizes a hidden fold beneath the breast. This approach aims to minimize visible scarring, decrease postoperative pain, and accelerate recovery time for patients who return home hours after the intervention.

The surgery combines cancer treatment with aesthetic and functional restoration. While the technique offers significant benefits, it remains specialized, suitable primarily for patients with small to moderate breast tissue and healthy body weight. It is not currently recommended for those with inflammatory breast cancer or significant breast sagging. MedStar Georgetown remains the sole provider of this specific robotic-assisted service in the Washington, D.C. region and one of only 10 facilities nationwide utilizing the da Vinci Single-Port system for this purpose.