What is a mastectomy?
Mastectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of some or all of the breast tissue to treat or prevent breast cancer or other breast conditions. Depending on the indication and individual patient factors, different types of mastectomy procedures may be performed.
Are there different types of mastectomies?
There are different types of mastectomies, each with its own surgical approach and extent of breast tissue removal. The main types of mastectomy include:
Total (Simple) Mastectomy
Total mastectomy involves the removal of the entire breast tissue, including the breast glandular tissue, nipple, and areola.
This procedure is typically performed for the treatment of early-stage breast cancer or as a risk-reductive measure for individuals at high risk of developing breast cancer.
Total mastectomy preserves the chest wall muscles and may be followed by breast reconstruction surgery to restore the breast contour.
Modified Radical Mastectomy
Modified radical mastectomy involves the removal of the entire breast tissue, including the breast glandular tissue, nipple, areola, and some of the underarm lymph nodes (axillary lymph nodes).
This procedure is typically performed for the treatment of invasive breast cancer or as a therapeutic measure when lymph nodes are involved.
Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy (NSM)
Nipple-sparing mastectomy involves the removal of breast tissue while preserving the nipple and areola complex.
This procedure is suitable for select patients with early-stage breast cancer or for individuals undergoing risk-reductive mastectomy who desire nipple preservation.
Nipple-sparing mastectomy offers improved cosmetic outcomes and reduced psychological impact compared to traditional mastectomy approaches.
Prophylactic Mastectomy
Prophylactic mastectomy involves the surgical removal of one or both breasts to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in individuals at high risk.
This procedure may be considered for individuals with a strong family history of breast cancer, a known genetic mutation (e.g., BRCA1 or BRCA2), or a personal history of high-risk breast lesions.
Prophylactic mastectomy may involve total mastectomy or nipple-sparing mastectomy, depending on the individual's risk profile and preference.
What are the benefits of having a mastectomy?
The decision to undergo a mastectomy is deeply personal and depends on individual circumstances, but there are several potential benefits associated with this procedure:
- Cancer Treatment: Mastectomy is an effective treatment option for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those with early-stage or locally advanced disease.
- Risk Reduction: Prophylactic mastectomy can significantly reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in high-risk individuals, providing peace of mind and empowering patients to take control of their health.
- Cosmetic Outcomes: Advanced surgical techniques, such as nipple-sparing mastectomy and reconstruction, can achieve excellent cosmetic outcomes and improve quality of life for mastectomy patients.
At The Iowa Clinic, our board-certified breast surgeons are dedicated to providing you with expert evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate care throughout your mastectomy journey. Whether you require mastectomy for the treatment of breast cancer or as a risk-reduction measure, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve optimal breast health and well-being.