Mastectomy in India

Mastectomy – Detailed Description

Mastectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove breast tissue, usually as a treatment for breast cancer or to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in individuals with a very high risk. Depending on the patient's medical condition, the surgery may involve removing one breast (unilateral mastectomy) or both breasts (bilateral mastectomy).

The main goal of mastectomy is to remove cancerous or potentially cancerous breast tissue and reduce the chances of cancer spreading or returning. It may be recommended for patients with large breast tumors, multiple areas of cancer in the breast, recurring breast cancer, or patients who are not suitable candidates for breast-conserving surgery.

Before surgery, doctors perform several diagnostic tests, including mammography, breast ultrasound, MRI, biopsy, and other medical examinations. These tests help determine the size, location, and stage of the cancer and allow the surgeon to select the most appropriate surgical approach.

During the procedure, the patient is usually given general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the breast and removes the required breast tissue. Depending on the type of mastectomy, the surgeon may also remove the nipple, areola, nearby lymph nodes, or surrounding tissues. In some cases, breast reconstruction can be performed during the same surgery or at a later stage.

Types of Mastectomy

• Total Mastectomy: Removes the entire breast, including the nipple and areola.

• Modified Radical Mastectomy: Removes the entire breast along with certain underarm lymph nodes.

• Radical Mastectomy: Removes the breast, underlying chest muscles, and nearby lymph nodes. It is rarely performed today.

• Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: Removes breast tissue while preserving most of the breast skin.

• Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: Removes breast tissue while preserving the nipple and areola when medically appropriate.

• Double Mastectomy: Removes both breasts.

Benefits of Mastectomy

• Removes cancerous breast tissue.

• Helps reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence in selected patients.

• Can be an effective treatment for certain types and stages of breast cancer.

• May be recommended for patients with multiple tumors in the breast.

• Provides an option for patients who are not suitable for lumpectomy.

• Can be combined with breast reconstruction.

• May reduce breast cancer risk in individuals with certain inherited genetic mutations.

Recovery After Surgery

Recovery after mastectomy depends on the type of surgery, the patient's overall health, and whether breast reconstruction is performed. Patients may experience pain, swelling, bruising, and temporary changes in sensation around the chest area.

Doctors may recommend pain medication, wound care, gentle arm exercises, and temporary activity restrictions. Some patients may need surgical drains to remove excess fluid during the healing process. Regular follow-up visits help monitor recovery and identify any complications.

Additional Treatment

Depending on the cancer stage and pathology results, additional treatments may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. The treatment plan is prepared according to the patient's medical condition and cancer characteristics.

Mastectomy is an important surgical treatment option for breast cancer. Proper diagnosis, personalized treatment planning, and regular medical follow-up help improve patient care and support better long-term outcomes.