What is Mastectomy?

Mastectomy is a procedure employed for the purpose of removing breast tissue either for the treatment of breast cancer or for breast cancer risk reduction. This procedure is one of the important surgical options in breast oncology. This surgery can be beneficial for patients with invasive breast cancer, non-invasive breast cancer that has spread extensively, recurrent breast cancer, those at high genetic risk for breast cancer, or patients with advanced breast disease.

Contemporary mastectomy operations are highly customized and may be done in combination with:

• Breast reconstruction operation
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy
• Axillary lymph node surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Hormone therapy
• Targeted treatment
• Immunotherapy

With advances in imaging, surgical planning, oncoplastics, precision pathology, and reconstructive surgery, both cancer control and cosmetic results from mastectomy operations have been greatly improved.

There are two common types of mastectomy procedures, and these include:

• Simple or Total Mastectomy
• Modified Radical Mastectomy

Mastectomies are often performed by an expert team that includes breast surgical oncologists, reconstructive surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, physiotherapists, and rehabilitation specialists, among others.

What is a mastectomy procedure?

Mastectomy is a medical operation where breast tissue is removed either to treat or prevent breast cancer.

In accordance with the types of surgery, mastectomy includes:

• Removal of all breast tissue
• Breast skin removal (on a case-by-case basis)
• Nipple and areola
• Lymph nodes nearby
• Surrounding tissue when needed

It is based on such criteria as:

• Stage of cancer
• Size of the tumor
• Locating the tumor
• Lymph nodes' involvement
• The preference of the patient
• Planning reconstruction

What are the main goals of mastectomy surgery?

The main aims of mastectomy are:

• Removal of all cancers
• Local control of cancer
• Cancer recurrence prevention
• Having less possibility for the spread of the cancer
• Evolution of long-term survival
• Surgical recovery support

Who should have a Mastectomy?

Mastectomy should be conducted in case of:

• Large tumors of the breast
• Multifocal cancer of the breast
• DCIS (Ductal carcinoma in situ) is extensively distributed
• Cancer recurrence
• Inflammatory cancer of the breast
• Not eligible for breast-sparing surgery
• High genetic risk in some selected cases

What tests are required before mastectomy surgery?

Before surgery, patients may have undergone:

• Breast physical exam
• Breast mammogram
• Breast ultrasound
• Breast MRI
• Biopsy and pathology
• Hormone receptor testing
• HER2 testing
• Lymph node tests
• PET-CT and/or staging tests as per case-specific needs

What are the different types of mastectomy surgeries?

Depending upon the severity of the disease and plans related to reconstruction surgeries, there are various options for mastectomy surgeries.

There are basically two types of mastectomy commonly performed, described below.

• Simple Mastectomy
• Modified Radical Mastectomy

Simple or Total Mastectomy

Simple Mastectomy Definition

In a simple mastectomy, removal of the following elements takes place:

• The entire breast
• The nipple and the areola

With the preservation of:

• The chest muscles
• Underarm lymph nodes in the majority of cases

It is a common surgery in the following situations:

• Early stages of breast cancer
• Widespread DCIS
• High-risk reduction surgeries for breast cancer prevention
• Some recurring breast cancer

When is a Simple Mastectomy Indicated?

Simple Mastectomy may be recommended when:

• Multicentric cancer in breast tissues exists.
• Non-invasive tumors are large in size.
• The patient does not respond well to radiation treatments.
• The patient prefers complete breast removal.

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy with Simple Mastectomy

Many women undergoing a simple mastectomy procedure also have:

• Sentinel lymph node biopsy

It will help ascertain whether or not the breast's surrounding lymph nodes have been affected by malignancy.

Benefits of Simple or Total Mastectomy

Certain benefits are possible through:

• Surgical treatment of breast cancer locally
• Elimination of extensive breast disease
• Lower chances of cancer recurrence among selected patients
• Availability of immediate breast reconstruction

Limitations

The procedure may result in:

• Disappearance of one's breast
• Need for emotional readjustment.
• Alteration of physical appearance
• Need for reconstructive discussions.

Thorough counseling and rehabilitation are necessary for a complete recovery.

Modified Radical Mastectomy

Definition of MRM

Modified Radical Mastectomy (MRM) refers to an invasive surgical treatment that entails the excision of:

• The entire breast
• Nipple and areola
• The axillary lymph nodes

Without damaging the:

• Pectoralis major and minor muscles

When there is a greater degree of disease or when cancer has progressed to the axillary lymph nodes, MRM is frequently used.

Indications for MRM Surgery

Indications for this treatment method may be:

• Breast cancer involving the axillary nodes
• Large invasive tumors
• Locally advanced disease
• Some recurrent cases
• Those needing extensive axillary surgery

Dissection of Axillary Lymph Nodes During MRM

When performing MRM:

• The axillary lymph nodes are surgically removed and evaluated.

This provides information on:

• The extent to which the cancer has spread
• The cancer's staging
• The need for any further treatment

Benefits of Modified Radical Mastectomy

The potential benefits include:

• Removal of cancer
• Lymph node evaluation
• Better local disease control
• Further guidance for treatment

Risks and Complications Associated With MRM

Some possible risks and complications are:

• Lymphedema
• Arm swelling
• Shoulder stiffness
• Numbness
• Formation of seroma
• Complications from infection
• Pain or discomfort

Physiotherapy after surgery is crucial.

When can you get breast reconstruction after mastectomy?

A large number of women opt for breast reconstruction following their surgery.

The type of reconstruction could be either:

• Immediate (the same day)
• or
• Delayed reconstruction

Methods of reconstruction could involve:

• Implants
• Flap techniques
• Nipple and areola reconstruction

What are skin-sparing and nipple-sparing mastectomies?

For some patients, advanced techniques can enable:

• Breast skin sparing
• Nipple-areola sparing

Such techniques allow good cosmetic results and still ensure that there will be no cancer.

How do you take care of yourself after mastectomy surgery?

The sort of operation will determine how well a patient recovers.

There can be:

• Short-lived pain or swelling
• Feelings of fatigue
• Constrained arm movement
• Placing drains after surgery

Recovery will take a few weeks.

What rehabilitation exercises help after a mastectomy?

The rehabilitation program includes:

• Physiotherapy
• Movement therapy for the shoulder
• Lymphedema prevention
• Emergency counseling
• Nutritional support
• Survivorship programs

These help patients enhance their recovery.

When is radiation needed after a mastectomy?

In some cases, radiation therapy may be needed after mastectomy, particularly when:

• The tumors are large.
• The lymph nodes are affected.
• Margins are close or positive.

Advancements in radiation technology ensure accurate treatment.

What systemic therapies follow mastectomy?

Based on the biological nature and stage of the tumor, patients might also undergo:

• Chemotherapy
• Hormonal therapy
• Targeted drug therapy
• Immunotherapy

Custom treatment plans will enhance patient outcomes.

What surgical complications can happen during mastectomy?

Complications may arise during a mastectomy procedure, such as:

• Bleeding
• Infections
• Seroma formation
• Skin or scar formation
• Edema formation in the arm
• Lymphedema
• Numbness
• Emergency

Most complications are manageable with appropriate treatment.

How can patients cope emotionally after a mastectomy?

Breast cancer surgery can affect a patient's mental health and body image.

The provision of supportive care could involve:

• Psychological counseling
• Support groups
• Rehabilitation services
• Survivorship care programs

Overall recovery is essential during the treatment of breast cancer.

What new technology is used in mastectomy surgery?

Advanced technology has enabled significant improvements in breast cancer surgery.

Digital Mammography and Breast MRI

Advancements in imaging technology help to improve:

• Tumor detection
• Surgical planning
• Tumor staging

Precision Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics

Modern pathology helps with the provision of the following services:

• Hormone receptors testing
• HER2 testing
• Margin assessment
• Molecular profiling

These results will help develop a personalized treatment plan.

Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping Technology

Modern lymphatic mapping technology improves the ability to:

• Locate sentinel lymph nodes.
• Improve surgical precision
• Conduct minimally invasive staging.

Oncoplastic and Reconstructive Surgical Techniques

Modern reconstructive techniques will help to improve:

• The cosmetic outcome
• Breast contouring
• Mental state

IMRT & IGRT Radiation Technologies

Advanced radiation systems will improve:

• Precision targeting
• Sparing healthy tissues
• Tumors' local control

Why select a Center of Excellence for mastectomy surgery?

The integrated services offered by a Comprehensive Cancer Center of Excellence include the following:

• Imaging of the breast
• Precision Medicine
• Oncology of Breast Surgery
• Surgical Reconstruction
• Oncology via Radiation
• Rehabilitation and Care for Survivors

Working together enhances patient health and treatment results.

Who is involved in a multidisciplinary mastectomy team?

The management of breast cancer requires the involvement of the following specialists:

• Surgical oncologist who specializes in breast surgery
• Medical oncologist
• Radiation oncologist
• Radiologist
• Pathologist
• Reconstructive surgeon
• Physiotherapist
• Rehabilitation therapist

The above collaborative effort is used to provide personalized treatment plans for patients.

Who is involved in a multidisciplinary mastectomy team?

Women need to consult a healthcare provider for:

• Breast lump
• Breast discharge
• Breast enlargement
• Breast skin changes
• Breast pain
• Breast imaging abnormalities

Early detection improves treatment outcomes and prognosis.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Mastectomy in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Mastectomy in Lucknow, India, with experienced breast surgeons and a multidisciplinary oncology team. Our specialists carefully evaluate the type, size, location, and stage of breast cancer to determine whether mastectomy is the appropriate surgical option. We focus on personalized surgical planning, safe procedures, modern hospital facilities, careful post-operative monitoring, and coordinated follow-up care. When appropriate, patients can also be evaluated for Breast Reconstruction Surgery after Mastectomy to support both treatment and recovery. With comprehensive cancer care and affordable treatment options, Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital provides quality Mastectomy and Breast Cancer Treatment in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert consultation for Mastectomy in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

Request a Call Back