A mastectomy is a surgical procedure that completely removes breast tissue as a treatment for breast cancer. Some patients can choose to undergo breast reconstruction to bring back shape, sometimes at the same time as the procedure.
Background
A mastectomy can be performed on one or both breasts for a variety of cancers. If the cancer is in its early stages, some patients might be able to choose a lumpectomy to remove only the tumor.
Surgery
Surgery can take two to three hours. The surgeon makes an incision around the nipple, separates the skin from the breast tissue and removes all tissue. A full, radical mastectomy will also remove some chest muscles.
Recovery
Hospital stays can last up to three days. Recovery typically involves prescribed pain medication and antibiotics, arm exercises and safeguarding against infections. A patient might have to deal with a remaining surgical drain until removal during the first follow-up visit with the doctor.
Potential Effects
Besides bleeding and infection, a patient undergoing a mastectomy can experience swelling, shoulder pain, numbness in the area and hematoma.
Aftermath
In the months following surgery, a patient might experience fatigue and phantom pains, which can be alleviated with analgesics and pain medication. Arm exercises should be continued to prevent stiffness. A patient might also need additional treatment such as hormone therapy or chemotherapy.
