When Might I Need a Mastectomy?
There are two surgeries for treating breast cancer, a lumpectomy and a mastectomy. During a lumpectomy, the tumor, a small amount of tissue surrounding the tumor, and some lymph nodes are removed.
A mastectomy to remove the entire breast may be a better — or the only option — when:
- You have two or more tumors in separate areas of the breast
- You have widespread cancerous microcalcifications
- Breast cancer has recurred after radiation treatment
- Cancer is still present in the margins after a lumpectomy
- Your tumor is large compared to the overall size of your breast
- You can’t tolerate radiation
You may also choose to have a prophylactic mastectomy to prevent breast cancer when genetic testing shows you’re at a high risk for breast cancer.
Are There Different Types of Mastectomies?
There are several types of mastectomies. During each procedure, lymph nodes are also removed to determine if the cancer has spread beyond the breast.
- Total (Simple) Mastectomy: During a total mastectomy, the whole breast is removed, including the nipple, areola, and the overlying skin.
- Modified Radical Mastectomy: This is a total mastectomy plus your surgeon at the Naab Road Surgical Group also removes the tissue that lies over your chest muscles.
- Radical Mastectomy: This procedure is the same as a modified radical mastectomy plus the chest muscle is also removed. A radical mastectomy is only done when the cancer has spread to the muscles.
- Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: The breast tissue, nipple, and areola are removed, but most of the skin is preserved.
- Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: In this procedure, the skin, nipple, and areola are preserved and only the breast tissue is removed. The tissues surrounding the nipple are carefully evaluated to be sure there are no signs of cancer cells near the areola and nipple.
Skin- and nipple-sparing procedures are only done when you plan to have immediate breast reconstruction.
When Should I Have Breast Reconstruction After a Mastectomy?
You can have breast reconstruction at the time of your mastectomy, wait until radiation therapy is finished, or simply wait until the time is right for you. The choice is purely personal. However, there are pros and cons to consider for each choice.
The most important thing is to talk with your surgeon at Naab Road Surgical Group about your options and consult with a plastic surgeon right away if you decide you want immediate reconstruction.
If you face decisions about a mastectomy, the team at Naab Road Surgical Group can help. Call the office or book an appointment online.
