What is a mastectomy?

A mastectomy is a surgery to remove one or both breasts, often used to treat or prevent breast cancer. Depending on your diagnosis, your doctor might recommend a mastectomy to remove cancerous tissue and reduce the risk of it spreading.

In some cases, women at high risk of developing breast cancer—due to a strong family history or genetic factors like BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations—may choose a mastectomy as a preventive measure.

Types of mastectomy

The type of mastectomy you might need depends on your diagnosis, health, and preferences. Common types include:

• Total mastectomy (simple mastectomy): Removes the entire breast, including the nipple and areola, while leaving the lymph nodes intact.
• Skin-sparing mastectomy: Preserves most of the breast skin, making it a good choice if you’re planning immediate reconstruction.
• Nipple-sparing mastectomy: Keeps the nipple and areola intact while removing breast tissue, suitable for some early-stage cancers or preventive surgeries.
• Modified radical mastectomy: Removes the breast and some lymph nodes under the arm, often recommended if cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.
• Radical mastectomy: In rare cases, this involves removing the breast, chest wall muscles, and all lymph nodes under the arm.

Your surgeon will discuss the best option for you, considering your medical needs and personal preferences.

Why might you need a mastectomy?

A mastectomy may be recommended for several reasons, including:

• Early-stage breast cancer: When the tumour is confined to the breast but isn’t suitable for breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy).
• Locally advanced breast cancer: When the tumour is larger or has spread to nearby lymph nodes but not distant parts of the body.
• Preventive surgery: For women at high risk of breast cancer due to family history or genetic factors.
• Recurrent breast cancer: If cancer returns after previous treatment.

What happens during a mastectomy?

Mastectomy is performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes 2 to 3 hours. Here’s what to expect:

• Anaesthesia: You’ll be under general anaesthetic, so you’ll be asleep and comfortable during the surgery.
• Incision and tissue removal: The surgeon will make an incision to remove the breast tissue, nipple, and areola, depending on the type of mastectomy. Lymph nodes may also be removed if needed.
• Reconstruction (if planned): If you’re having immediate reconstruction, this will be performed during the same surgery, using implants or tissue from another part of your body.
• Closure: The incisions will be closed with stitches, and dressings will be applied to protect the area as it heals.

Recovery after mastectomy

Your recovery will depend on the type of mastectomy and whether you’ve had reconstruction, but here’s a general idea of what to expect:

• Hospital stay: Most women stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days, although you might go home the same day if no reconstruction was done.
• Wound care: You’ll be given instructions for cleaning and caring for the incision site and checking for signs of infection.
• Drain care: Small drainage tubes may be placed to remove fluid. These are usually removed within one to two weeks.
• Pain management: Some discomfort is normal after surgery, but pain relief will be provided to help you feel comfortable.
• Activity restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for about 4 to 6 weeks. Light activities can usually be resumed sooner, based on your surgeon’s advice.

Risks and complications

Mastectomy is a safe procedure, but like all surgeries, it carries some risks, including:

• Infection: A small risk of infection at the incision site.
• Lymphedema: Swelling in the arm if lymph nodes are removed.
• Scarring: There will be a scar, but it typically fades over time.
• Changes in sensation: Some numbness or changes in breast or chest sensation may occur.

Your surgeon will explain these risks and help you take steps to minimise them during recovery.ecovery.

Why choose Birmingham Breast Clinic?

At Birmingham Breast Clinic, you’ll receive expert care every step of the way. When you choose us, you benefit from:

• Experienced surgeons: Our highly skilled team has extensive experience in performing all types of mastectomy, ensuring the highest standard of care.
• Personalised treatment plans: We tailor your treatment to meet your specific needs and goals, including options for reconstruction if desired.
• Comprehensive support: From diagnosis to recovery, we’re here to guide you through every step of your journey with compassion and understanding.

We know this is a deeply personal and emotional decision, and we’re committed to providing the care and reassurance you need.

Contact us

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer and need more information about mastectomy, contact Birmingham Breast Clinic to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step of your treatment.