Mastectomy
To cure or prevent breast cancer, a mastectomy is a surgical procedure where the entire breast tissue is removed from the breast. A mastectomy might be a possible course of treatment for those with early-stage breast cancer. Another alternative is breast-conserving surgery, or lumpectomy, in which only the breast tumor is removed. It can be challenging to choose between a lumpectomy and a mastectomy. For preventing breast cancer recurrence, both procedures are equally beneficial. However, not everyone with breast cancer has the choice of having a lumpectomy; some would rather have a mastectomy.
Modern mastectomy methodology allows for the preservation of breast skin and the restoration of a more natural-looking breast appearance. It also is referred to as a skin-sparing mastectomy. Breast reconstruction operations can either be performed concurrently with your mastectomy or at a subsequent procedure at a later time.
Side effects of a Mastectomy:
- fluid build-up after lymph node removal
- stiffness in the shoulder
- fatigue
- changes in sensation in the breast, nipple, or arm
- a build-up of fluid around the scar