News

New minimally invasive mastectomy option available at Westmead Private Hospital

Aug 25, 2026

Women undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer treatment or risk reduction now have access to a minimally invasive surgical option at Westmead Private Hospital, designed to avoid a visible scar across the breast.

Endoscopic nipple-sparing mastectomy may be particularly beneficial for selected women with inherited BRCA1, BRCA2 or other gene mutations who choose risk-reducing breast surgery. It may also be suitable for selected patients requiring mastectomy as part of their breast cancer treatment.

Associate Professor Farid Meybodi, specialist breast and oncoplastic surgeon, has introduced the technique at Westmead Private Hospital. The procedure uses high-definition, three-dimensional endoscopic imaging and specialised instruments to perform the mastectomy through a small, discreet incision.

Associate Professor Meybodi said the technique provided another surgical option for appropriately selected patients.

“For women considering a mastectomy, the cancer or risk-reduction outcome is the priority. Recovery, scarring and how a woman feels about her body after surgery are also important considerations,” he said.

“This technique can allow us to perform the mastectomy through a much smaller, discreetly placed incision while maintaining the same oncological and surgical objectives.”

The procedure is performed through an incision approximately four centimetres long, concealed within the lateral mammary fold at the outer edge of the breast, rather than through an incision across the front of the breast.

High-definition, three-dimensional endoscopic imaging gives the surgeon a magnified view of the operative field, supporting precise dissection and identification of important anatomical structures, including blood vessels and nerves.

“The enhanced view provides excellent visibility throughout the operation and allows us to perform precise surgery through a relatively small access point,” Associate Professor Meybodi said.

“By limiting the incision and preserving the surrounding tissue that supports the breast skin, this approach may help maintain blood supply and nerve continuity to the skin and nipple–areola complex.”

Westmead Private Hospital CEO Andrew Spillane said the introduction of the technique would expand the breast surgery options available to women in Western Sydney.

“For women facing the difficult decision to undergo a mastectomy, access to different surgical options matters,” Mr Spillane said.

“We are pleased to offer this technique at Westmead Private Hospital, giving suitable patients greater choice in how their surgery is performed.”

“Its introduction reflects our commitment to bringing advanced surgical techniques and technology to Western Sydney, so patients can access high-quality care close to home.”