Mastectomy
There are two different types of mastectomy. One is called the simple mastectomy, the surgeon will remove all breast tissue including skin and nipple in order to ensure that all the cancer cells are removed. The second is called a skin sparing mastectomy and preserves the skin, and sometimes nipple, but removes the breast tissue. The need for a mastectomy is based on various factors including breast size, number of lesions, the ability to have adjuvant radiation, a patient’s personal values and tolerance for any risk factors.
Learn more about mastectomy surgery.
Learn more on when a mastectomy is needed, how it is performed, what preparation is needed and potential side effects.
If your surgeon is talking to you about doing a partial mastectomy, they may also refer to it as a quadrantectomy. Learn more about the routine use of the quadrantectomy procedure for breast cancer removal.
The following resources provide additional information on the different procedures that may be involved in reconstruction of the breast after surgery. Learn more about the difference between TRAM and DIEP flap surgeries through an analysis of the 100 most commonly cited articles on the two procedures.
Learn more about latissimus dorsi flap surgery.
Learn about breast reconstruction using implants, skin expanders, dermal matrices and fat grafting.
Learn about possible risk factors of silicone implants.
Types of Mastectomies: What is nipple-sparing reconstruction? – Sonia Sugg, MD
Learn more about nipple-sparing mastectomies vs. conventional and skin-sparing.
Radical Mastectomy Procedure • PreOp® Patient Education & Patient Engagement
Learn more about radical mastectomy surgery and information on what to expect prior to surgery.
What is Breast Reconstruction | Overview
Learn more about the different options for breast reconstruction (both immediate and delayed).
Mastectomy Breast Reconstructions Options:
Learn more about the breast reconstruction process following surgery.