Oncoplastic Breast-Conserving Surgery in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Training Surgeons and Bridging the Gap

Purpose of Review Breast cancer treatment in low- and middle-income countries involves a series of limitations. On the other hand, oncoplastic surgery has been well established in these countries as an alternative to mastectomy, offering oncologic safety while preserving the natural contours of the female breast. The aim of this review is to discuss recent studies and analyses involving oncoplastic surgery in low- and middle-income countries. Recent Findings Although major differences remain between low- and high-income countries with respect to science, this same pattern is not reflected in oncoplastic surgery. This is explained by the fact that this technique is associated more with the nature of the surgical training provided than with the availability of financial resources. In low- and middle-income countries, oncoplastic surgery may contribute towards reducing inequalities and improving the management of breast cancer treatment, providing adequate oncologic results even when financial resources are limited.