What should you know about mastectomy both breasts?

Your plan may include removal of the nipple and areola, skin-sparing surgery, or removal of more skin when needed. Lymph nodes may be sampled on one or both sides. The pathology findings, tumour features, and your health help determine whether additional treatment is advised.

Reconstruction can begin during the mastectomy or at a later stage. [Breast Reconstruction](/treatments/surgical-oncology/breast-reconstruction/) may use an implant or tissue from another body area, while some people choose a flat closure. A [Lumpectomy](/treatments/surgical-oncology/lumpectomy/) is a different option because it preserves most of the breast.

Ask about drains on each side, pain relief, sleeping positions, bathing, and when you can drive or lift. Set up practical support at home because both arms and the chest may feel restricted at first. Wear the garment recommended by your team rather than choosing tight compression without advice.

Walk gently as allowed and practise the shoulder movements you are given. Numbness, pulling, bruising, and uneven swelling can occur during healing. If nodes are removed, learn the signs of arm or chest swelling and ask about [Lymphoedema Therapy](/treatments/survivorship-and-rehabilitation/lymphoedema-therapy/).

Call your surgical team for a fever, spreading redness, cloudy drainage, worsening pain, a wound that opens, or swelling that increases quickly on either side. Emergency care is needed for severe breathlessness, chest pain, collapse, or bleeding that does not settle with firm pressure.

Ask why both sides are recommended, whether nodes will be tested, which reconstruction timing suits you, how symmetry may change, and what the pathology report could mean for further care. Ask when you can restart work, exercise, and usual personal activities.