During a mastectomy, a breast (or breasts) is
removed for treatment of cancer. During a total or radical mastectomy, the
axillary lymph nodes, lymph nodes, nipples and nearby chest muscles are also
removed.
Also
Known As:
- Total
mastectomy
- Radical
mastectomy
- Removal of
breasts
- Cancer
treatment
Conditions
Treated with a Mastectomy:
A mastectomy may be performed in cases of breast
cancer, as well as patients who are at high risk for cancer.
Chemotherapy is a non-surgical alternative to a
mastectomy. A surgical alternative to the procedure is a lumpectomy.
Anesthesia
with a Mastectomy:
A mastectomy is performed under general anesthesia,
which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the
procedure.
Potential
Complications from a Mastectomy:
Possible risks following a mastectomy include
infection, bleeding, scarring, infection and a negative reaction to the
anesthesia. It is also possible to experience lymphedema and numbness under the
arm.
Recovery
from a Mastectomy:
Total recovery from a mastectomy takes several
months.