MUSC Surgical Oncologist Dr. Andrea Abbott Earns Certification for Hidden Scar™ Breast Cancer Surgery

Charleston, S.C. (October 17, 2017) – The Medical University of South Carolina’s Hollings Cancer Center announced today that surgical oncologist Dr. Andrea Abbott has been certified as a Hidden Scar Trained Surgeon for Hidden Scar™ Breast Cancer Surgery. Dr. Abbott is among the first in South Carolina to perform this advanced approach to breast cancer surgery that hides scars. Dr. Abbott and the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center are expanding options for women in the Charleston area with a procedure that effectively treats the cancer while optimizing cosmetic results.

Each year, approximately 405,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer and require surgery. Minimally invasive approaches like Hidden Scar™ Breast Cancer Surgery, allow surgeons to remove the cancerous tissue through a single incision made in an inconspicuous area, preserving the natural shape of the breast while reducing visible scarring. Patients who undergo this approach – available for both lumpectomy and mastectomy procedures – experience optimal clinical and cosmetic outcomes, and are at no higher risk of recurrence than patients who undergo any other surgical technique.

According to Dr. Abbott, "Hidden scar surgery provides a woman the opportunity to preserve the natural look of her breast without a visible scar, while not compromising outcomes. At a time when patients can feel like they have very few choices, this procedure allows women to have control over their bodies."

Performing breast cancer surgery through a smaller incision requires consistent illumination throughout the surgical cavity, so surgeons can clearly see and effectively remove the tumor. Dr. Abbott utilizes Invuity’s Intelligent Photonics™ technology to improve visibility during procedures such as lumpectomy and nipple sparing mastectomy – enabling her to perform complex, in-demand surgeries with greater confidence, and give more women access to transformative options.

More Information:

• For more information on MUSC Hollings Cancer Center’s Comprehensive Breast Program, visit www.hollingscancercenter.org/breast.
• For more information on Hidden Scar, visit www.myhiddenscar.com and www.breastcancersurgery.com.