Mastectomy. Dr Tansu Altintas. ISU Liv Hospital Bahcesehir

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Mastectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the breast, often performed to treat breast cancer. There are several types of mastectomy, each with its own characteristics and indications. Here is detailed information about each type of mastectomy:

1. Simple mastectomy

A simple mastectomy involves the removal of the entire breast, including the nipple, but without removing the muscles beneath the breast or the lymph nodes in the underarm area.

Indications for the procedure

• Early stages of breast cancer

• Prophylactic mastectomy in patients with a high risk of developing breast cancer (e.g., those with genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2)

• Benign breast diseases that do not respond to other treatment methods

Benefits of the procedure

• Less invasive compared to radical mastectomy

• Quick recovery

2. Radical mastectomy

A radical mastectomy involves the removal of the entire breast, underarm lymph nodes, and chest muscles (pectoralis major and minor).

Indications for the procedure

• Advanced stages of breast cancer when the tumor has invaded the chest muscles

• This type of mastectomy is less commonly performed today due to the development of less invasive treatment methods

Benefits of the procedure

Removes more tissue, which may be necessary for treating advanced stages of cancer

Drawbacks of the procedure

• More invasive with a longer recovery period

• High risk of complications such as lymphedema and restricted arm mobility

3. Modified radical mastectomy

A modified radical mastectomy involves the removal of the entire breast and underarm lymph nodes, but not the chest muscles.

Indications for the procedure

• Breast cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes in the underarm area

• This type of mastectomy is less invasive compared to radical mastectomy and allows the preservation of chest muscles

Benefits of the procedure

• Less invasive compared to radical mastectomy

• Preservation of chest muscles improves functional outcomes and quality of life

There is still a risk of complications such as lymphedema.

After a mastectomy, many women choose breast reconstruction, which can be performed simultaneously with the mastectomy or subsequently. There are several reconstruction methods, including the use of implants or the patient's own tissues.

Rehabilitation after mastectomy may include physical therapy to restore arm and shoulder mobility, as well as psychological support to adapt to bodily changes.

Like any surgical procedure, mastectomy has its risks, including infection, bleeding, seroma formation (fluid accumulation), and lymphedema (arm swelling due to disrupted lymphatic drainage).

Mastectomy can have a significant psychological impact on the patient. It is important to provide support and consultations to help adapt to bodily changes and the emotional consequences of the surgery.

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