What to expect from mastectomy for breast cancer in men

A mastectomy removes the breast tissue on the affected side. Depending on the cancer and examination findings, the surgeon may also assess or remove lymph nodes in the armpit. The nipple and surrounding skin may be removed, although the exact approach depends on where the tumour is and whether reconstruction is suitable. The removed tissue is examined to clarify the cancer features and whether further treatment is needed.

After surgery, you may have a dressing and one or more drains to collect fluid near the wound. Tightness, bruising, altered sensation, or numbness around the chest and armpit can occur while healing.

Before the operation, tell the team about medicines, allergies, bleeding problems, and previous anaesthetic reactions. Arrange help at home and wear loose clothing that does not rub the wound. Follow instructions about washing, dressings, drains, pain relief, and arm movement. Gentle exercises can help shoulder mobility, but lifting and strenuous activity should wait until your surgical team says it is appropriate.

Keep follow-up appointments so the wound, drain, pathology findings, and next treatment decisions can be reviewed. Ask whether a prosthesis, reconstruction, or specialist rehabilitation is relevant to you.

Contact your surgical team promptly for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, wound separation, pus-like drainage, fever, worsening pain, or a drain that stops working or fills suddenly. Seek urgent care for severe shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, or heavy bleeding.

Which breast tissue and lymph nodes will be removed? Will reconstruction or a chest prosthesis be discussed? How should I manage the drain and exercises? When will pathology results be available, and could additional treatment be recommended?