Ascension St. Vincent Among First in Nation to Perform Post–Clinical Trial Single-Port Robotic Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy

On April 13 at Ascension St. Vincent Fishers, nationally recognized breast surgical oncologist Dr. Christina J. Kim performed one of the nation's first known post-clinical single-port robotic nipple-sparing mastectomies, marking an important advancement in minimally invasive breast surgery and patient-centered care.

Ascension St. Vincent now offers the procedure through Dr. Kim using the da Vinci SP Surgical System. The technology allows surgeons to perform the mastectomy through a single small incision concealed in the underarm, avoiding visible incisions on the breast itself. Designed for women facing breast cancer or preventive surgery, the minimally invasive approach may reduce visible scarring, support faster recovery and help preserve quality of life during and after treatment.

By preserving the natural breast envelope - and in many cases sensation - the approach represents an important advancement in both surgical precision and patient experience. For many women, the technique may mean less postoperative pain, fewer visible reminders of surgery and greater confidence during recovery.

Once Dr. Kim completes the mastectomy, reconstructive plastic surgeon Dr. Ian Sando immediately begins reconstruction. Because the breast envelope remains intact and unscarred, Dr. Sando is able to work with what many describe as a pristine "canvas," helping optimize both cosmetic and functional outcomes.

"Ascension St. Vincent Fishers is proud to support groundbreaking innovation that advances both the science of medicine and the experience of our patients," said Aleks Overbey, president of the hospital. "What Dr. Kim, Dr. Sando and our surgical teams have accomplished reflects our commitment to bringing leading-edge, patient-centered care to Indiana. This procedure represents more than a technological advancement - it offers women facing breast cancer or preventive surgery the opportunity for less invasive treatment, faster recovery and renewed confidence during an incredibly difficult journey."

For patients, the benefits of this minimally invasive robotic approach can include faster recovery, less postoperative pain, minimal visible scarring, lower infection risk and, in many cases, a same-day return home.

"This advancement is a testament to the power of a truly integrated medical team. By combining our collective expertise with the precision of the da Vinci SP system, we are able to offer patients a much less invasive recovery without compromising on the highest standards of oncologic care," said Dr. Christina J. Kim, breast surgical oncologist. "Whether performed for breast cancer treatment or preventive surgery, this approach allows us to minimize visible scarring while helping preserve quality of life, confidence and peace of mind for our patients."

A defining feature of the procedure is the collaboration between Dr. Kim and reconstructive plastic surgeon Dr. Ian Sando. By preserving the natural breast envelope and avoiding visible breast incisions, the surgical team is able to achieve both strong oncologic outcomes and improved aesthetic results. Together, the approach signals a broader shift toward surgical care that prioritizes not only cancer treatment but also the long-term quality of life and experience of patients.

Dr. Christina J. Kim is a nationally recognized breast surgical oncologist at Ascension St. Vincent and a leader in minimally invasive, sensation-preserving mastectomy techniques. Her work focuses on advancing robotic-assisted breast surgery to improve clinical outcomes while enhancing quality of life for women facing breast cancer or seeking preventive surgery. Through close collaboration with reconstructive surgeons, she is helping redefine the future standard of care in breast cancer treatment. Dr. Kim will continue offering the procedure while also helping train other physicians in the technique as access to robotic-assisted breast surgery continues to expand.

To learn more about robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Christina J. Kim, please visit: https://healthcare.ascension.org/find-care/provider/1912006206/christina-kim