What should you know about left radical mastectomy?

Radical mastectomy is different from a standard mastectomy because it may include removal of the chest wall muscles and lymph nodes in the armpit. Modern care often considers less extensive operations when they can treat the disease safely, so the name on a referral should be discussed rather than assumed.

The left side may feel numb, tight or weaker after surgery. Removing or treating armpit lymph nodes can affect shoulder movement and lymph drainage. The pathology report helps the team decide whether additional treatment is needed.

Before surgery, ask which tissues will be removed, whether reconstruction is possible, and whether other treatment is planned before or after the operation. Arrange help with washing, dressing, meals and transport. Follow instructions about wound care, drains and shoulder exercises.

Gentle movement usually forms part of recovery, guided by the team. Report persistent tightness, swelling or reduced arm movement so support can begin early. A prosthesis or reconstruction may be discussed according to healing, health and preference.

Contact the surgical team urgently for fever, spreading redness, worsening pain, pus, wound separation, sudden swelling, or a drain that stops working or fills unexpectedly. Seek emergency help for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting or sudden weakness.

Which tissues and lymph nodes will be removed? Is a less extensive operation suitable? Could treatment be given before surgery? What will the pathology report guide? When can shoulder exercises start? When should reconstruction or lymphoedema therapy be considered?