Why is a Mastectomy Performed?
A mastectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing one or both breasts to treat or prevent breast cancer. It is commonly performed when cancer affects a large portion of the breast, when multiple tumours are present, or when other treatments, such as breast-conserving surgery, are not suitable.
The procedure removes breast tissue and sometimes nearby lymph nodes under the arm to check whether cancer has spread. In certain cases, the skin, nipple, or chest muscles may also be removed depending on the type and stage of cancer.
Mastectomy is a major but widely performed surgery used as part of breast cancer treatment. Some people also choose a preventive (prophylactic) mastectomy if they have a very high risk of developing breast cancer due to genetic mutations or strong family history.
After the procedure, patients may choose breast reconstruction surgery, wear a breast prosthesis, or remain without reconstruction depending on personal preference and medical advice.
Who May Need a Mastectomy?
A mastectomy may be recommended for individuals who:
● Have breast cancer affecting a large area of the breast
● Have multiple tumors in different parts of the breast
● Have inflammatory breast cancer
● Have previously received radiation therapy to the chest
● Have a high genetic risk of breast cancer (such as BRCA gene mutations)
● Had a previous lumpectomy that did not remove all cancer cells
● Are unable to undergo radiation therapy after breast-conserving surgery
Your doctor evaluates the stage of cancer, tumor size, overall health, and treatment goals before recommending mastectomy.
Types of Mastectomy
Several types of mastectomy procedures exist depending on the extent of tissue removed:
1. Simple (Total) Mastectomy
The entire breast is removed, including the nipple and areola, but the lymph nodes and chest muscles remain intact.
2. Modified Radical Mastectomy
The entire breast is removed along with some lymph nodes under the arm to check for cancer spread.
3. Radical Mastectomy
A more extensive surgery where the breast, lymph nodes, and chest wall muscles are removed. This type is rarely performed today.
4. Skin-Sparing Mastectomy
The breast tissue is removed while most of the breast skin is preserved for reconstruction.
5. Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy
The nipple and areola are preserved while the breast tissue underneath is removed.
The appropriate type depends on cancer location, stage, and the patient’s treatment plan.
Mastectomy Procedure
A mastectomy is usually performed in a hospital under general anesthesia, meaning the patient is asleep during the operation.
1. Preparation
The surgical team reviews medical history, imaging results, and treatment plans. The surgeon discusses reconstruction options if desired.
2. Anesthesia
General anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient does not feel pain during surgery.
3. Incision
The surgeon makes an incision across the breast to access the breast tissue.
4. Removal of Breast Tissue
The breast tissue is carefully removed. In some cases, nearby lymph nodes are also removed for testing.
5. Drain Placement
Small surgical drains may be placed temporarily to remove excess fluid and prevent swelling.
6. Closure
The incision is closed with sutures or surgical staples, and dressings are applied.
The surgery may take 1–3 hours, depending on the type of mastectomy and whether reconstruction is performed.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery after a mastectomy varies based on the type of surgery and whether reconstruction is performed.
Typical recovery includes:
● A hospital stay of one or two days in many cases
● Temporary drain tubes to remove fluid from the surgical site
● Mild pain, swelling, or numbness in the chest area
● Limited arm movement during early healing
Most patients can resume normal activities within 3–6 weeks, although recovery may take longer if reconstructive surgery is performed.
Doctors may also recommend:
● Gentle arm exercises to prevent stiffness
● Wearing a supportive surgical bra
● Follow-up appointments to monitor healing
● Additional treatments such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy depending on the cancer stage.
Risks & Possible Complications
Like any major surgery, mastectomy carries certain risks.
Possible complications include:
● Bleeding or infection at the surgical site
● Fluid buildup (seroma) under the skin
● Pain or numbness in the chest or arm
● Swelling of the arm (lymphedema) if lymph nodes are removed
● Shoulder stiffness or limited arm movement
● Scar tissue formation at the surgical site
Some people may also experience post-mastectomy pain syndrome, a condition involving nerve-related pain around the chest or underarm area.
Doctors take precautions during surgery and recovery to reduce the likelihood of complications.
Surgery
General Surgeon
Podiatry
Gynecology