Overview

A mastectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the entire breast. It is most commonly performed to treat or prevent breast cancer. In some cases, nearby lymph nodes under the arm (axillary lymph nodes) are also removed to help determine whether cancer has spread and to guide further treatment.

Mastectomy is a well-established, effective treatment for breast cancer and is often part of a broader, personalised cancer care plan that may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy.

At KIMSHEALTH, mastectomy is performed by experienced breast surgeons using evidence-based protocols, advanced surgical techniques, and a compassionate, multidisciplinary approach that prioritises both cancer control and quality of life.

What Is a Mastectomy?

A mastectomy involves surgical removal of breast tissue. Depending on the type of breast cancer, its stage, genetic risk, and patient preference, the procedure may vary in extent.

In addition to removing the breast, the surgeon may:

• Remove lymph nodes under the arm
• Preserve the skin and/or nipple when appropriate
• Perform breast reconstruction at the same time or at a later stage

Types of Mastectomy

The type of mastectomy recommended depends on tumour size, location, spread, and individual treatment goals.

1. Simple (Total) Mastectomy

• Removal of the entire breast
• Lymph nodes are not routinely removed
• Often used for early-stage cancer or risk-reducing surgery

2. Mastectomy + Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

• Removal of entire breast

• Removal of selected lymph nodes

• Often in early stage cancers

• Removal of the entire breast plus lymph nodes in the armpit

• Commonly performed when lymph node involvement is suspected or confirmed

3. Bilateral (Double) Mastectomy

• Removal of both breasts

May be recommended for:

• Cancer in both breasts
• Strong genetic risk (such as BRCA mutations)
• Risk-reduction in selected individuals

4. Skin-Sparing Mastectomy

• Breast tissue is removed, but most of the skin is preserved
• Often combined with immediate breast reconstruction

5. Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy

• Breast tissue is removed while preserving the nipple and areola
• Suitable only for carefully selected patients
• Requires strict oncologic assessment to ensure safety

Can Breast Reconstruction Be Done?

Yes. Breast reconstruction can be:

• Immediate (done during the same surgery as mastectomy), or
• Delayed (done months or years later)

Reconstruction options include:

• Implants
• Tissue expanders
• Reconstruction using the patient’s own tissue

Some individuals choose not to have reconstruction. This is a personal decision, and all options are discussed in detail at KIMSHEALTH so patients can make informed choices.

Why Is a Mastectomy Done?

A mastectomy may be recommended if you have:

• Breast cancer involving a large area of the breast
• Multiple tumours in different parts of the breast
• Cancer that has not responded well to other treatments
• A strong genetic risk for breast cancer
• Recurrent breast cancer after previous treatment

In some cases, chemotherapy or other treatments are given before surgery to shrink the tumour and expand surgical options.

How Do I Prepare for a Mastectomy?

Pre-Surgical Evaluation

Before surgery, your care team will perform a thorough evaluation, which may include:

• Physical examination
• Blood tests
• Mammogram, ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans
• Biopsy to confirm diagnosis
• Lymph node assessment

Medical History Review

You will be asked about:

• Current and past medical conditions
• Previous surgeries
• All medications (prescription, over-the-counter, herbal supplements)
• Allergies
• Bleeding or clotting disorders

Pre-Operative Instructions

You will receive guidance on:

• Fasting before surgery
• Skin preparation to reduce infection risk
• Arranging help at home after discharge
• What to bring to the hospital

Your surgical team at KIMSHEALTH will ensure all your questions are answered before the procedure.

What Happens During a Mastectomy?

• An intravenous (IV) line is placed to give fluids and medications
• General anesthesia is administered so you are fully asleep
• Your vital signs are continuously monitored
• The surgeon makes an incision over the breast
• Breast tissue is carefully removed
• Lymph nodes may be removed if needed
• If reconstruction is planned, it may begin immediately
• One or more drain tubes are placed to prevent fluid buildup
• The incision is closed and covered with sterile dressings

Surgery duration:

• 1–2 hours for mastectomy alone
• Longer if reconstruction is performed

What Happens After a Mastectomy?

In the Hospital

• You are monitored in a recovery area
• Most patients go home after 3-5 days
• Pain, nausea, or grogginess are managed with medication

Recovery at Home

• Gradual return to activity
• Drain care instructions provided
• Gentle arm exercises may be recommended
• Follow-up appointments scheduled

Risks and Possible Complications

Like all surgeries, mastectomy carries risks, though serious complications are uncommon.

Possible risks include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Fluid collection (seroma)
• Delayed wound healing
• Pain or numbness
• Shoulder stiffness
• Arm swelling (lymphedema) if lymph nodes are removed
• Skin or nipple tissue damage
• Emotional distress or depression

Your surgeon will discuss these risks in detail and explain how they are prevented and managed.

Emotional and Psychological Well-Being

A mastectomy can be emotionally challenging. Feelings of sadness, anxiety, or changes in body image are common and valid.

At KIMSHEALTH, care extends beyond surgery:

• Emotional support and counselling referrals
• Clear communication and shared decision-making
• Respect for personal choices regarding reconstruction

Follow-Up and Ongoing Care

After surgery:

• Pathology results are reviewed
• Additional treatments may be recommended
• Long-term surveillance is planned
• Rehabilitation and survivorship care are coordinated

When Should I Call the Doctor?

Contact your care team if you experience:

• Fever or chills
• Increasing pain or swelling
• Redness or discharge from the incision
• Sudden arm swelling
• Shortness of breath
• Concerns about drains or wound healing

Mastectomy Care at KIMSHEALTH

At KIMSHEALTH, mastectomy is delivered as part of a comprehensive breast cancer program, supported by:

• Expert breast and oncosurgeons
• Advanced imaging and pathology
• Multidisciplinary tumour boards
• Personalised reconstruction options
• Compassionate nursing and rehabilitation care

Take the Next Step

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer or advised to consider mastectomy, consult the specialists at KIMSHEALTH for a personalised evaluation and evidence-based treatment plan.

Book an appointment today and take a confident step toward healing with KIMSHEALTH.