Mastectomy

Mastectomies are surgical procedures that are designed to prevent or treat breast cancer by removing all the breast tissue. In early stage breast cancer, women may have the option to choose between a lumpectomy, which enables the doctor to remove only the tumor and preserve the breast, or a mastectomy. Both procedures have been determined to be effective, but lumpectomy may not be appropriate for all women. Mastectomy may be highly recommended for women who are at a risk for having the tumor metastasize, or spread. Doctors may also recommend mastectomies on one or both breasts if a woman is diagnosed with:


  • Non-invasive, stage 1, stage 2 or stage 3 breast cancer
  • Inflammatory breast cancer, or IBC
  • More than one tumor in separate areas or tumors that have recurred
  • Breast cancer and is pregnant or have another condition that would make radiation or chemotherapy inadvisable
  • Cancerous tissue that remains after a lumpectomy
  • A comparatively large tumor that would leave little healthy breast tissue after a lumpectomy
  • A gene mutation that dramatically increases the risk of developing IBC


Surgeons today can perform procedures designed to preserve the maximum amount of skin to allow for more comfortable, natural-looking breast reconstruction surgery, which may be performed at the time of your mastectomy or at a later date. The incision will generally be made around the nipple, and the breast tissue will be removed. Women who are undergoing radical mastectomies may have some of their chest muscle removed as well. If the reconstruction is performed at the same time, the plastic surgeon will complete the process after the affected tissue is removed.

The procedure is considered safe, extremely effective and can result in life extension. However, as with all surgical procedures, it does carry some risks including pain, bleeding, hematoma, infection, swelling, shoulder pain, numbness or scar formation. Women may experience a period of physical and emotional adjustment after undergoing mastectomy. If you have undergone a mastectomy, rest frequently, and take your pain medication as prescribed. Arm exercises can help restore mobility and reduce discomfort. Phantom pain may continue several months following your procedure, and you may feel fatigued as your body recovers. Seek support from your friends, family members or support group as you continue to heal.