The surgeon removes:
– All of the breast tissue.
– The skin of the breast.
– The nipple and the areola.
The surgeon will also perform an axillary lymph node dissection, which means that more than a few lymph nodes (usually about 10-14) under the arm on the side of the tumour will be removed to check whether cancer has spread there.
Modified radical mastectomy is most appropriate for candidates who have early-stage breast cancer, advanced but localised breast cancer, inflammatory breast cancer or Paget disease of the breast with an underlying condition such as DCIS.
During the mastectomy, the surgeon separates the breast tissue from the skin and muscle. All of the breast tissue that the surgeon can see — which lies between the collarbone and ribs, from the side of the body to the breastbone in the centre — is removed. Depending on the type of mastectomy you are having, your surgeon may remove other parts of the breast. The surgeon will perform an axillary clearance during the surgery after the mastectomy.
You will have drains in each operated breast and stay overnight in the hospital. Most patients complain of chest tightness after this surgery. You will be prescribed muscle relaxants that will help with the tightness.
Taking pain medication
Caring for the bandage (dressing) over your incision, surgical drain and stitches.
Recognizing signs of infection-fever, increased redness around the incision, and pus draining from the incision.
Exercising your arm
Recognizing signs of lymphedema
You can wear a breast prosthesis or bra after the wound heals.
