Her Fight is Our Mission

Remote-Incision Lumpectomy (RIL) is an advanced form of breast-conserving surgery for women with early-stage breast cancer. Unlike traditional lumpectomy, which involves a cut or incision directly over the tumour, RIL removes the tumour through a discreet, hidden incision — often along the inframammary fold or around the areola. This technique preserves the natural appearance of the breast without compromising oncologic safety.

At Apollo Athenaa Women’s Cancer Centre, Remote-Incision Lumpectomy is offered to eligible women seeking a balance between complete tumour removal and minimal visible scarring. It is often combined with oncoplastic reshaping to maintain breast symmetry and contour.

How the Procedure Is Performed

• The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
• If the tumour is not palpable, pre-operative localisation is done using a fine wire.
• A small incision or surgical cut is made away from the tumour site, typically under the breast or around the edge of the areola.
• Using a tunnelling technique, the surgeon accesses and removes the tumour with a rim of healthy tissue.
• Oncoplastic techniques may be used to reshape the breast and maintain natural contour.
• The incision is closed with fine sutures to minimise scarring.
• The procedure usually lasts 1.5 to 2 hours.

Recovery

• Hospital stay: Most patients are discharged within 24 hours. A follow-up visit is scheduled within 7 days for wound review.
• Pain management: Pain is generally mild and well-controlled with oral medication. Swelling, bruising, or temporary numbness near the incision is common and resolves gradually.
• Resuming routine: Light activities may resume in 3–5 days; return to full routine is expected in 2–3 weeks.
• Follow-up care: Final pathology results are available in 5–7 days to guide the need for additional treatment.

Key Advantages

• Excellent cosmetic results with hidden or minimally visible scars.
• Tumour removal is as complete as traditional lumpectomy.
• Supports emotional well-being, helping preserve body image and confidence during recovery.
• Can be paired with oncoplastic reshaping, ensuring symmetry and avoiding breast deformity.
• Ideal for selected early-stage cancers, especially when the tumour is small, well-localised, and not close to the skin or nipple.

Continuum of Care

Remote-Incision Lumpectomy is one part of Apollo Athenaa’s comprehensive breast cancer pathway. Each patient receives:

• Detailed imaging and tumour localisation before surgery
• Multidisciplinary tumour board review to ensure suitability for this technique
• Oncoplastic surgical planning, incorporating both medical and cosmetic considerations
• Post-operative support, including physiotherapy, wound care, and scar management
• Adjuvant therapy planning, including radiation, chemotherapy, or hormonal therapy as required
• Long-term surveillance, with clinical and imaging follow-up for recurrence monitoring

Our team of surgical oncologists is committed to helping every woman heal not just medically, but wholly — with options that prioritise safety, dignity, and self-confidence.