Mastectomy

Mastectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or both breasts, typically as a treatment for breast cancer. The type of mastectomy recommended by a surgeon depends on the stage of the cancer, as well as other factors such as the size and location of the tumor. 

Indications for mastectomy include:

  • Breast cancer: Mastectomy is often recommended for patients with breast cancer, particularly if the tumor is large or if there are multiple tumors in the breast. Mastectomy may also be recommended for patients who have a high risk of developing breast cancer due to genetic mutations or other factors.
  • Breast abscess: In some cases, a breast abscess may require surgical removal of the breast tissue.
  • Male breast cancer: Although rare, breast cancer can occur in men and may require mastectomy for treatment. 

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and may involve the removal of the entire breast (total mastectomy) or just the breast tissue (partial mastectomy). In some cases, the surgeon may also remove nearby lymph nodes to check for the presence of cancer. 

There are several different types of mastectomy, including: 

  • Simple or total mastectomy: This involves the removal of the entire breast but not the lymph nodes under the arm. 
  • Modified radical mastectomy: This involves the removal of the entire breast and some lymph nodes under the arm. 
  • Radical mastectomy: This involves the removal of the entire breast, some lymph nodes under the arm, and the chest wall muscles. 
  • Skin-sparing mastectomy: This involves the removal of the breast tissue but preserves the breast skin for reconstruction. 
  • Nipple-sparing mastectomy: This involves the removal of the breast tissue but preserves the nipple and areola for reconstruction. 

The recovery period after mastectomy varies depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual patient's healing process. Typically, patients will need to stay in the hospital for a few days after the surgery and will experience pain and discomfort for several weeks. The surgical team will provide pain management and other supportive care to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery. 

At Sterling Hospitals, Ahmedabad, our experienced team of surgeons and healthcare professionals are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care for our patients undergoing mastectomy and other surgical procedures. Our state-of-the-art facility and advanced technology make us a leading surgical hospital in Ahmedabad. We provide personalized care and support to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery for our patients.