Meet Mr. John Mathew: Leading Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon at Fitzwilliam Hospital


If you're navigating the complex world of breast cancer treatment, you may find comfort in knowing that there are local experts like Mr. Mathew at the forefront of advanced surgical options.

Mr. Mathew is a Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon with a significant presence in both NHS and private practices in Peterborough including Fitzwilliam Hospital.

With a specialised focus on breast surgical oncology and advanced oncoplastic and reconstructive breast surgery, Mr. Mathew has dedicated his career to developing the most effective and aesthetically considerate surgical options for patients.

man smiling in a suite

Expertise in Therapeutic Mammoplasty

One of Mr. Mathew’s key areas of expertise is Therapeutic Mammoplasty. This innovative procedure blends breast reduction surgery with breast cancer treatment.

It is particularly beneficial for patients with larger breast cancers who are suitable for breast conservation. By using this technique, patients can undergo tumour removal while simultaneously achieving a breast reduction, leading to a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing result.

Mr. Mathew’s work in this area has been widely recognised, with significant contributions to the field through numerous presentations and peer-reviewed articles, including his upcoming work in PRS Global1.

Pioneering Work with Local Chest Wall Perforator Flaps

Another advanced technique in Mr. Mathew’s repertoire is the use of Local Chest Wall Perforator Flaps. Removing larger tumours while preserving breast tissue, provides an excellent option for breast conservation in challenging cases.

This method is particularly useful for patients with relatively large tumours and a high tumour-to-breast volume ratio, where traditional breast conservation might not be as effective.

Mr. Mathew has co-authored research comparing the outcomes of this approach to therapeutic mammoplasty, demonstrating his commitment to expanding and refining breast surgery options2.

Leading Innovations in Total Breast Reconstruction

Hidden Scar Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy

When it comes to total breast reconstruction, Mr. Mathew is a leader in innovative techniques that prioritise both safety and aesthetic outcomes. One such technique is called Hidden Scar Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy.

This approach involves removing the cancerous breast tissue while preserving the nipple and surrounding skin, with the incision hidden in the natural fold beneath the breast.

This method not only effectively treats breast cancer but also leaves minimal visible scarring, allowing patients to maintain a natural appearance post-surgery.

Mr. Mathew’s research has shown that this technique allows safer insertion of larger volume implants in relation to the weight of the breast as opposed to nipple sacrificing mastectomy, offering a more aesthetically-pleasing option for women undergoing reconstruction3.

Skin-Reducing Mastectomy with Total Breast Reconstruction

For high-risk patients, particularly those with a high Body Mass Index (BMI) or significant breast ptosis (sagging), Mr. Mathew specialises in Skin-Reducing Mastectomy with Total Breast Reconstruction.

This approach involves the use of adjustable implant expanders or fixed volume implants following skin reducing mastectomy in patients who might face additional risks due to their weight or breast anatomy.

His recent work has been published in the National Library of Medicine. It found that the use of adjustable implant extenders following skin reduction surgery in this high-risk group is an option with acceptable early-to medium-term outcome4.

A Career Marked by Research and Innovation

Beyond his surgical practice, Mr. Mathew is also a dedicated researcher. He earned his Doctor of Medicine (DM) from Nottingham University for his laboratory-based research into autoantibodies in cancer.

Mr Mathew’s academic contributions are substantial, with over 50 papers and presentations to his name, including three chapters in respected medical books. His research and clinical work continue to influence the field of oncoplastic surgery, ensuring that patients benefit from the latest advancements in breast cancer treatment and reconstruction.

Committed to Patient-Centred Care

Mr. Mathew’s approach to care is deeply patient-centred. He understands that breast cancer treatment is not just about removing a tumour but conserving breast tissue and attaining the best aesthetically-pleasing result for each patient based on their needs and desires.

Mr Mathew performs these leading breast cancer surgeries at Fitzwilliam Hospital

If you or a loved one is facing breast cancer and considering surgical options, Mr. Mathew’s expertise in oncoplastic and reconstructive surgery offers a pathway to not only try to beat the disease but also to optimally reconstruct your breast.

Whilst listening to his patients, Mr Mathew determines the best type of surgery for their individual needs. He considers a number of factors, including their tumour size, breast shape, body type as well as their desire to regain breast shape, how they feel about their body, and how clothes fit.

His innovative techniques and dedication to patient care make him a leading choice for those seeking advanced breast cancer treatment.

To book an appointment with Mr Mathew at Fitzwilliam Hospital, call 01733 842309

References

1 J Mathew. Therapeutic mammoplasty in the management of cancers involving different zones of the breast. PRS global - in production

2 Khan S, Mathew J. Comparison of Surgical and Oncological Outcomes between Chest Wall Perforator Flaps and Therapeutic Mammoplasty. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2021 Sep 7;9(9):e3811. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000003811

3 Mathew J. Can we safely accommodate larger volume implants in inframammary fold nipple sparing mastectomy compared to nipple sacrificing mastectomy in implant-based reconstruction with acellular dermal matrix? JPRAS Open. 2020 Nov 4;27:1-6

4 Mathew J. Direct to implant reconstruction with adjustable permanent Becker implant expanders with ADM following de-epithelised skin reducing mastectomy in high-risk overweight and obese patients with severe ptosis. Surgeon 2023 Feb;21(1):54-59