What is modified radical mastectomy?

A modified radical mastectomy (MRM) is a surgery used to treat breast cancer by removing the entire breast. During this procedure, the doctor removes:

• All of your breast tissue.
• The lining over your large chest muscle.
• The skin covering the breast.
• The nipple and the darkened area around it (areola).
• Most or all of the lymph nodes in your armpit (axillary lymph nodes), as this is where cancer often spreads first.

Knowing you need a mastectomy can feel overwhelming. It is normal to feel confused or have many questions. Your doctor and care team will support you by listening to your concerns and helping you through every step of the process.

When would I need a modified radical mastectomy?

If breast cancer has spread throughout the breast tissue and into the lymph nodes, your doctor may recommend this surgery. The goal is to remove any tissue that might contain cancer cells.

A doctor may use this surgery to treat:

• Cancer in the milk ducts (ductal system).
• Cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes under the arm (invasive lobular carcinoma).
• Advanced breast cancer that has affected the skin or surrounding areas (locally advanced or inflammatory breast cancer).

What happens before a modified radical mastectomy?

If your doctor decides this is the best option, they will explain how it fits into your overall care. You might need other tests or treatments (like chemotherapy or radiation) either before or after the surgery.

Your doctor will also ask if you want breast reconstruction (surgery to rebuild the breast shape). This can sometimes be done during the same surgery as the mastectomy, or it can be done later after you have recovered from other treatments.

What do I need to do to get ready?

To prepare for surgery, your doctor might ask you to:

• Stop smoking and drinking alcohol a few weeks before the date.
• Stop taking certain medications a few days before.
• Stop eating and drinking several hours before the procedure.

You should also plan for your return home. You will need someone to drive you and may need help with daily tasks while you recover.

What happens during a modified radical mastectomy?

First, a doctor will give you general anesthesia so you will be asleep and won't feel any pain. Then, the surgeon will:

1. Make an incision (cut) in the breast.
2. Remove the breast tissue, the lining of the chest muscle, the skin, the nipple, and the areola.
3. Remove the lymph nodes from under your arm (axillary lymph node dissection).
4. Place one or more small tubes (surgical drains) to collect fluid from the site.
5. Close the cut with stitches.

If you chose to have reconstruction at the same time, the surgeon will perform that step before closing the skin.

How long does the surgery take?

The operation usually takes two to three hours. If you are having reconstruction at the same time, it will take longer. Your doctor will give you a more specific timeline based on your needs.

What are the pros and cons of this surgery?

The main benefit is removing as much cancer as possible. However, because this surgery involves removing lymph nodes and a large amount of tissue, there are risks of long-term side effects, such as:

• Slow-healing skin wounds.
• Negative feelings about your body image.
• Lymphedema: Swelling in the arm caused by fluid buildup.
• Phantom breast syndrome: Feeling as though the breast is still there.
• Persistent pain in the chest or arm area.

What happens right after the surgery?

You will stay in the hospital for a short time so the staff can monitor your recovery. You will be given pain medicine in safe amounts. Before you go home, the nurses will teach you how to clean your wound and how to take care of the surgical drains.

What does recovery feel like?

When you get home, your doctor will tell you not to lift anything heavy. However, walking a little bit every day is encouraged.

• Weeks 1–3: You will focus on caring for your wound and drains.
• Weeks 4–6: You may still feel tired and sore.
• Months 1–6: It takes time for nerves to heal. You might feel "pins and needles," tingling, or sharp twinges in your chest as the nerves repair themselves.

Your doctor will give you specific arm exercises. It is very important to do these to make sure your arm moves freely again.

When should I call my doctor?

You will have regular follow-up visits, but you should call your doctor immediately if you notice:

• Unusual or sudden swelling.
• Pain that gets worse instead of better.
• A fever.
• Redness or strange color changes around the surgery site.

If you experience ongoing physical pain or struggle with your mental health after treatment, let your doctor know. They can connect you with specialists to help you heal both physically and emotionally.

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

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital is one of the best hospitals for Modified Radical Mastectomy in Lucknow, India. Our experienced breast and oncological surgeons use advanced surgical techniques to safely remove the entire breast along with the axillary lymph nodes to effectively treat breast cancer with precise and effective results. We ensure accurate diagnosis, personalized surgical planning, and comprehensive post-operative care for safe and smooth recovery. With expert breast cancer care and affordable pricing, our Modified Radical Mastectomy cost is suitable for patients seeking high-quality breast cancer surgical treatment in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Modified Radical Mastectomy in Lucknow, India:

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

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