Mastectomy

🔬 How the Procedure Is Performed

1. 1

   General anaesthesia is administered.

2. 2

   An elliptical incision is made around the breast (or a smaller incision for skin-sparing types).

3. 3

   All breast tissue is removed from the overlying skin and underlying chest muscle.

4. 4

   Sentinel lymph node biopsy or full axillary clearance is performed if needed.

5. 5

   Drains are placed and the wound is closed.

6. 6

   Breast reconstruction may begin immediately in the same operation.

✅ Benefits of Mastectomy

• ✓Complete removal of breast cancer — definitive treatment
• ✓Eliminates the need for radiation in many cases when compared with lumpectomy
• ✓Preventive (prophylactic) mastectomy dramatically reduces cancer risk in BRCA gene carriers
• ✓Immediate reconstruction can provide excellent cosmetic outcomes
• ✓Reduces anxiety about cancer recurrence in high-risk patients

📋 How to Prepare

• Complete staging investigations: mammogram, ultrasound, MRI breast, CT chest/abdomen.
• Genetic testing (BRCA1/2) may be offered.
• Meet with a breast reconstruction surgeon to plan immediate reconstruction.
• Psychological support and meeting breast cancer nurse specialist.
• Physiotherapy instruction for post-operative arm exercises.

💊 Post-Procedure Care

• Drain management at home — the drain is removed after a few days.
• Arm exercises to prevent stiffness and lymphoedema — start within 24 hours.
• Wear a well-fitting post-mastectomy bra or prosthesis once the wound heals.
• Review histology results at 2–3 weeks to plan adjuvant therapy.
• Long-term follow-up with the oncology team for 5–10 years.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🏥 Mastectomy at Iswarya Hospital

Iswarya Cancer Centre provides comprehensive oncology support with radiation therapy using high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells while protecting surrounding healthy tissue.