Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare Completes First Minimally Invasive Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy In Eastern Province

Breast cancer patients at Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare who undergo mastectomy can now benefit from improved cosmetic outcomes, reduced recovery time, and less pain.

The Oncology Center of Excellence at Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare has successfully completed the first minimally invasive nipple-sparing mastectomy in the Eastern Province.

Dr. Mohammed Al Duhileb, a consultant breast oncologist and oncoplastic surgeon who conducted the surgery, said the “innovative procedure” represented “a significant leap forward in breast cancer treatment” that offered significant benefits to patients.

Mastectomy, or breast removal, is one of the most common surgeries used to treat early-stage breast cancer and is typically followed by breast reconstruction. When performing a conventional nipple-sparing mastectomy, surgeons seek to preserve the patient’s nipple and surrounding skin when removing the breast tissue. This improves the cosmetic outcome of breast reconstruction.

A minimally invasive nipple-sparing mastectomy involves using an endoscope — a thin tube with a camera, light, and surgical tools at the end — to remove the patient’s breast tissue. The endoscopic technique allows for more precise removal of breast tissue while preserving the nipple and surrounding skin, helping to create a superior reconstruction. Patients also benefit from faster recovery times, reduced postoperative pain, and fewer complications compared with traditional methods.

“Patients who undergo the minimally invasive procedure will typically be discharged from hospital faster, allowing them to return to their daily lives sooner,” Dr. Al Duhileb said.

A recent study found that minimally invasive nipple-sparing mastectomy offered several advantages over conventional nipple-sparing mastectomy, such as fewer complications, improved aesthetic outcomes, and higher patient satisfaction.

Dr. Al Duhileb said: “Minimally invasive nipple-sparing mastectomy is a pioneering surgery that not only showcases Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare’s commitment to advanced medical care but also highlights the region’s growing reputation as a hub for cutting-edge healthcare. Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare’s Oncology Center of Excellence continues to provide state-of-the-art treatments, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care as we fight breast cancer together.”

Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare’s Oncology Center of Excellence is setting the benchmark for specialized cancer care in the Gulf. Breast cancer is a central focus of the Oncology Center of Excellence, given that cases are expected to rise significantly in the coming decades.

Dr. Akram Aljahdali, Chief of General and Pediatric Surgery at Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, said: “We constantly strive to introduce innovative surgical procedures and techniques that improve the lives of our patients. Minimally invasive nipple-sparing mastectomy provides exceptional cosmetic outcomes for breast cancer patients and importantly, improves their quality of life.”

Learn more about breast cancer care at Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare.