Overview
Microdochectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a diseased or blocked milk duct from the breast. It is primarily performed to treat nipple discharge, ductal infections, or localized benign breast lesions, while preserving the rest of the breast tissue.
In Korea, microdochectomy is performed by experienced breast surgeons, using minimally invasive techniques that ensure precise removal of the affected duct, minimal scarring, and optimal cosmetic results.
Highlights:
- ✅ Treats persistent nipple discharge or ductal abnormalities
- ✅ Minimally invasive with preservation of breast tissue
- ✅ Helps in diagnosis and treatment of benign or pre-cancerous conditions
- ✅ Quick recovery with low complication rates
What is Microdochectomy?
Microdochectomy involves surgical excision of a single milk duct in the breast. It is typically recommended when patients experience:
- Spontaneous nipple discharge (bloody or serous)
- Localized breast infections or abscesses within a duct
- Benign tumors or papillomas within a duct
- Suspicion of pre-cancerous changes in a duct
Important: Microdochectomy is both diagnostic and therapeutic, as the removed duct can be analyzed to rule out malignancy.
What are the benefits?
- Targeted removal: Only the affected duct is removed, preserving healthy breast tissue
- Symptom relief: Stops persistent nipple discharge and recurrent infections
- Diagnostic benefit: Allows pathological examination of excised tissue
- Minimally invasive: Small incisions with minimal scarring
Key benefits highlighted:
- ⚡ Preserves breast appearance and function
- ⚡ Quick recovery with outpatient procedure in many cases
- ⚡ Reduces risk of recurrence of ductal issues
- ⚡ Provides peace of mind with tissue analysis for malignancy
Procedure Details
1) How should I prepare for Microdochectomy?
- Preoperative evaluation: Breast imaging (ultrasound, mammography), ductography, and blood tests
- Medication review: Stop blood thinners or other medications as advised
- Fasting: 6–8 hours before surgery if general anesthesia is planned
- Consent and counseling: Discuss procedure, potential risks, expected outcomes, and post-surgical care
- Lifestyle preparation: Arrange for postoperative rest and support
2) What happens during Microdochectomy?
- Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia administered based on the case
- Incision: Small incision made around the nipple or in the areola
- Duct removal: Affected milk duct is carefully excised
- Hemostasis: Bleeding is controlled, and surrounding tissue inspected
- Closure: Incision closed with fine sutures to minimize scarring
Duration: Typically 30–60 minutes depending on complexity
3) What happens after Microdochectomy?
- Recovery monitoring: Observation of incision and breast for bleeding or swelling
- Pain management: Analgesics prescribed for mild discomfort
- Activity: Gradual return to normal activities; avoid strenuous exercise for a few days
- Follow-up care: Monitor healing, incision site, and nipple sensation; pathology results reviewed
Highlights for post-procedure care:
- ⚡ Mild bruising, swelling, and tenderness expected
- ⚡ Avoid heavy lifting and intense physical activity for 1–2 weeks
- ⚡ Keep incision clean and dry
- ⚡ Attend follow-up visit to check healing and discuss pathology results
Risks / Benefits
Risks:
- Infection or wound complications
- Bleeding or hematoma formation
- Nipple numbness or altered sensation
- Cosmetic irregularities or minor scarring
- Rare recurrence of ductal issues
Benefits:
- Targeted treatment for persistent nipple discharge or ductal lesions
- Preserves overall breast tissue and aesthetics
- Diagnostic confirmation for benign or pre-cancerous conditions
- Minimally invasive with rapid recovery
Recovery and Outlook
- Hospital stay: Often outpatient; hospital stay may be required in rare cases
- Full recovery: 1–2 weeks for normal activities
- Long-term outlook: Excellent; low recurrence when performed correctly
- Follow-up: Postoperative visits to monitor wound healing and review pathology results
Tips for optimal recovery:
- ✅ Maintain proper incision hygiene
- ✅ Avoid strenuous physical activity for at least 1–2 weeks
- ✅ Wear supportive bras to reduce swelling
- ✅ Attend all follow-up appointments for best outcomes
When To Call the Doctor
- Fever, chills, or signs of infection
- Excessive bleeding or swelling at incision site
- Severe pain not relieved by medication
- Nipple discharge returns or changes in breast appearance
- Any concerns about wound healing or cosmetic results
Best Korea Option / Process
Korea provides advanced Microdochectomy care:
- Top hospitals: Specialized breast surgery centers with expert surgeons
- Minimally invasive techniques: Precise duct removal with minimal scarring
- Advanced diagnostics: Ultrasound, mammography, and ductography for accurate planning
- Postoperative care: Pain management, wound care, and monitoring for complications
- International patient support: Online consultations, appointment scheduling, and telemedicine follow-up
Step-by-step process in Korea:
- Preoperative consultation and breast imaging
- Surgical planning and patient education
- Microdochectomy performed under local or general anesthesia
- Postoperative monitoring and pain management
- Follow-up appointments to review healing and pathology results
