Published on Oct. 8, 2026
Advances in breast surgery are giving patients more options to preserve their appearance and improve their quality of life without compromising cancer treatment.
At MemorialCare Cancer Institute, breast surgeons bring the most advanced techniques in breast surgery to patients. Whether performing a lumpectomy with oncoplastic techniques to combine cancer removal with a breast lift, or a skin- and nipple-sparing mastectomy using minimally invasive approaches, the team's focus is on achieving excellent cancer outcomes while delivering the best possible aesthetic results for patients.
MemorialCare Cancer Institute's reconstructive surgeons also offer advanced lymphatic reconstruction techniques designed to help reduce the risk of lymphedema, a condition that can cause painful swelling after lymph node removal. By creating new pathways for lymphatic fluid to drain, the team helps patients recover more comfortably while striving for the best possible treatment outcomes.
Jessica Rayhanabad M.D., medical director, breast surgery, MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute, is a specialist in oncoplastic breast surgery, which uses plastic surgery techniques to remove the cancer and then rebuild the breast to maintain its natural look and feel.
Now, she also performs endoscopic nipple-sparing mastectomy, a highly specialized procedure that requires advanced training and expertise. This minimally invasive approach uses endoscopic instruments to remove breast tissue through a small incision while preserving the nipple and breast skin. By minimizing visible scarring and maintaining the natural appearance of the breast, the technique can help support a patient's body image, confidence and overall quality of life after breast cancer treatment.
“Breast cancer patients deserve to feel confident and whole after surgery,” said Dr. Rayhanabad. “With the techniques we have today, we can treat the cancer while also preserving a natural aesthetic appearance. Our goal is for each patient to feel beautiful, confident and comfortable in her body.”
Each surgical approach is determined through a personalized care plan developed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists. The team considers factors such as breast size and skin texture, the size and location of the cancer, and the patient's goals and preferences. The breast surgery team works closely with experts in oncology, radiology, pathology, nursing, genetics, rehabilitation and supportive care to provide coordinated treatment that addresses both cancer care and reconstruction goals. This highly collaborative approach helps ensure patients receive care tailored to their individual needs and priorities.
“This is not a one-size-fits-all approach,” Dr. Rayhanabad said. “No matter the surgical option, we focus on preserving a natural appearance so patients feel confident in their choices and their bodies.”
“Our goal is always to keep improving the care we provide,” she continued. “Endoscopic mastectomy surgery is the newest treatment we offer at MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute and reflects our commitment to using advanced techniques when they can benefit patients.”
Surgeons require specialized training to perform endoscopic mastectomy surgery, which uses a small camera and specialized surgical instruments to operate through smaller, strategically placed incisions. This approach allows surgeons to remove the cancer while preserving the natural nipple’s look and feel.
“Our patients are at the center of everything we do,” Dr. Rayhanabad said. “We want every patient to feel cared for as a whole person and supported the way we would want our own family members to be supported. Our focus is to help our patients continue forward with a healthy body image, confidence and the best possible quality of life.”
Medically Reviewed by
Jessica Rayhanabad, M.D., medical director, breast surgery, MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute, Long Beach Medical Center
About the Expert
Jessica A. Rayhanabad, M.D., is a board-certified breast surgeon and Medical Director of Breast Surgery at the MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute at Long Beach Medical Center. She specializes in the surgical treatment of breast cancer, with expertise in oncoplastic breast surgery, minimally invasive techniques, and intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT). Dr. Rayhanabad completed a breast surgical oncology fellowship at the Keck School of Medicine of USC and is recognized for her commitment to advancing breast cancer care while helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes.
