Skip to content
My WebMD Sign In, Sign Up

Breast Cancer Health Center

Font Size

Radical Mastectomy for Breast Cancer

During a radical mastectomy, the surgeon removes all of the breast tissue along with the nipple, lymph nodes in the armpit, and chest wall muscles, under the breast. This procedure is rarely performed today, because modified radical mastectomy, a less extensive surgery, has proved to be equally as effective, less disfiguring, and does not carry the risk of secondary angiosarcoma associated with this type of surgery.

You should be asked to give blood before breast cancer surgery, in case a transfusion becomes necessary.

Recommended Related to Breast Cancer

Man's Guide to Breast Cancer

John W. Anderson has stood by his mother, wife, sister, and his mom’s closest friend as they battled breast cancer. His new book, Stand by Her: A Breast Cancer Guide for Men, published in time for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, details these experience, and all that he learned by being on the frontlines of this battle with four of the most important women in his life. From when to stay quiet, shave your head, or grab a beer with a buddy to get out of what he dubs "Cancerland," Anderson...

Read the Man's Guide to Breast Cancer article > >

You should thoroughly discuss  surgical options with the operating surgeon to achieve the best outcome. Whichever type of surgery is your best option, you will be able to return home after a short stay in the hospital.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

Reviewed by Arnold Wax, MD on May 17, 2012

Today on WebMD

Breast Cancer Health Check
HEALTH CHECK
breast cancer overview slideshow
SLIDESHOW
 
cancer fighting foods
SLIDESHOW
senior woman
Article
 
Breast Cancer Treatments Improving
VIDEO
Resolved To Quit Smoking
SLIDESHOW
 
Woman getting mammogram
Article
Screening Tests for Women
SLIDESHOW
 
ovarian cancer overview slideshow
SLIDESHOW
serious woman
Article
 
what is your cancer risk
HEALTH CHECK
10 Ways to Revitalize Slideshow
SLIDESHOW
 

WebMD Special Sections