How effective is mastectomy for breast cancer?

A mastectomy removes part or all of the breast, depending on the operation selected. The surgeon may also assess or remove nearby lymph nodes. The decision considers the tumour's size and position, whether there are several areas involved, breast size, inherited risk and personal preference.

Removing the breast does not by itself answer whether cancer cells have travelled elsewhere or whether further treatment is needed. Pathology from the operation helps the team decide about radiotherapy, medicines and follow-up. Breast reconstruction may be performed at the same operation or considered later.

Ask the breast surgeon to explain the proposed operation, lymph-node plan, expected wound care, changes in sensation and recovery milestones. Discuss whether breast-conserving surgery is suitable, what reconstruction choices exist and how each option may affect movement or appearance. A second specialist opinion can help if the options remain unclear.

Before surgery, share your medicines, allergies and other health conditions. Arrange practical help for washing, dressing, meals and transport while arm movement is limited. Follow the surgical team's instructions about wound care and activity.

Contact the surgical team for fever, spreading redness, worsening pain, increasing swelling, fluid leaking from the wound or a wound that opens. Sudden breathlessness, chest pain or one-sided leg swelling needs urgent medical help. Do not wait for a routine appointment when these changes occur.

Ask why mastectomy is recommended, whether lymph nodes will be sampled, which treatments may follow, and how reconstruction could affect timing. Ask how sensation, shoulder movement and surveillance will be managed after surgery.