There are several types of mastectomy, or breast-removing surgery:
- Total or simple mastectomy is the removal of the entire breast but does not include a dissection of the lymph nodes under the arm or removal of the muscle underneath the breast. This type of mastectomy is appropriate if you have DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) or if you are having breast removal surgery to lower your risk of getting breast cancer in the future (prophylactic mastectomy).
- Modified radical mastectomy is the removal of the breast and some lymph nodes under the arm. This surgery is used to remove cancer that may have spread to nearby lymph nodes. It is the most common type of mastectomy.
- Radical mastectomy is the removal of the breast, lymph nodes, and the muscle underneath the breast. This surgery is much less common but may be used for tumors that extend into the muscle of the chest wall.
You and your doctor may decide that mastectomy is the best option for you if:
- More than one part of your breast was found to contain cancer.
- You would be left with either very little breast tissue or a very deformed breast after undergoing a lumpectomy.
- You are not a candidate for radiation treatment.
- You would prefer to remove the whole breast for greater peace of mind.
What to expect with mastectomy
Because mastectomy removes the entire breast, fluid will collect under the incision. Drains may need to be put in.
Possible effects of surgery include:
- Numbness and tenderness around the incision
- Fluid collection under the scar, which your doctor may remove with a needle
- Infection in the surgical area, which is usually discovered early and responds well to treatment
Questions to ask your surgeon about mastectomy
- How long will I be in the hospital?
- How long will the surgery take?
- What will the scar look like?
- If I get stitches, will I have to come back to have them removed?
- Will I need pain medication after surgery?
- Will I have drains inserted during surgery?
- If I have drains inserted, will they be removed right away, or will I have to come back to have them removed?
- When can I take my first shower or bath?
