Breast Cancer: Mastectomy

A mastectomy refers to the removal of a breast. More commonly this involves removing a part of the breast, and less frequently, the entire breast. There are different types of mastectomy.

The surgeon will review which type of mastectomy will be done and the reasons why.

A partial or segmental mastectomy includes removal of the tumor and a larger portion of surrounding tissue. It is also called a quadrantectomy or wide excision and is sometimes considered breast-conserving surgery.

• A simple mastectomy includes the complete removal of the breast with no removal of lymph nodes.
• A modified radical mastectomy includes the removal of the breast as well as all of the lymph nodes. This procedure can be followed by immediate breast reconstruction, which is performed by a plastic surgeon.
• A radical mastectomy includes removal of the breast as well as the muscles beneath the breast. This is no longer performed and considered historical.

The Surgical Procedure

Breast cancer surgery is done under general anesthesia and usually takes two to three hours. During the procedure, the cancer surgeon makes an incision that may extend to the armpit if the lymph nodes are removed, and performs the operation to remove the cancer. Sometimes, a section of the breast tissue is frozen for further study under a microscope. A lab test is performed to identify the type of tumor. It may take several days to completely identify the type of tumor present.

Before surgery, print out these Questions to Ask so you can better understand your care

• Specific instructions to follow in the days before surgery.
• An overview of the surgical procedures.
• Information about recovery and follow-up care.

After surgery, watch for complications such as infection or lymphedema, swelling in your arm or hand. Call your doctor immediately if you see signs of swelling, a buildup of fluid, redness, or other symptoms of infection.

Reviewed by Sonja Eva Singletary, MD, Professor of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.