What should you know about Kayleigh McEnany's mastectomy?

A mastectomy removes all or most breast tissue. The surgeon may also discuss the nipple, breast skin, nearby lymph nodes, and whether tissue can be preserved. The exact operation depends on the tumour's location, its extent, previous treatment, and whether surgery is being used to treat breast cancer or another breast condition.

Some people have reconstruction during the same operation; others choose reconstruction later or use an external breast form. A lumpectomy removes the tumour with a margin of surrounding tissue and preserves more of the breast, but it is not suitable for every diagnosis. Chemotherapy before surgery may be considered when shrinking the tumour could change the surgical plan.

Ask the breast team which tissues will be removed, whether lymph nodes will be assessed, and how the result may affect movement, sensation, and clothing. Request a discussion with a breast reconstruction specialist before surgery if reconstruction interests you. Plan help with washing, dressing, meals, and lifting during the early recovery period.

Follow wound and drain instructions carefully. Gentle arm movement is usually introduced in stages. Report increasing swelling, redness, drainage, fever, or worsening pain rather than waiting for the next appointment. Lymphoedema therapy can help when swelling of the arm or chest wall develops after lymph-node treatment.

Contact the surgical team promptly for a wound that opens, new bleeding, spreading redness, cloudy drainage, fever, sudden arm swelling, or pain that is not controlled by the prescribed plan. Seek emergency help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, or sudden weakness.

Which type of mastectomy is recommended, and why? Will lymph nodes be checked? Could chemotherapy before surgery change the operation? What reconstruction or prosthesis options fit my treatment? Which arm exercises and warning signs should guide recovery?