Mastectomy refers to the surgery that is performed to remove all breast tissues from a breast as a way to treat or prevent breast cancer. There are five different types of mastectomy: "simple" or "tot.....
Mastectomy refers to the surgery that is performed to remove all breast tissues from a breast as a way to treat or prevent breast cancer. There are five different types of mastectomy: "simple" or "total" mastectomy, modified radical mastectomy, radical mastectomy, partial mastectomy, and subcutaneous (nipple-sparing) mastectomy.
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Steps to take before Mastectomy
Specific instructions will be given by your doctor at Medanta. You will receive guidelines on what to drink, eat, and on your habit of smoking; if you are a smoker. It is advised to avoid medicines that have a blood thinning effect, at least 7days prior to your surgery. You will also be advised not to drink or eat at least 8 to 12 hours before the surgery.
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What happens during Mastectomy?
Mastectomy is performed under general anaesthesia. The incisions run around the width of the breast. But in some cases, they also include nipples, areola, and the original biopsy scar. After the incision, the breast muscle is taken away from the overlying skin. The surgeon will then close the incision and the chest will be covered by a bandage.
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After Mastectomy
After the surgery, the patient is taken to a recovery room where her blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are monitored. The bandage placed over incision is also dressed. Your doctor will give you instruction on how to take care of yourself at home.
A surgery always comes with some benefits and risks, which is same in the case of mastectomy.
The advantages of Mastectomy treatment are:
The major benefit of the procedure is that radiation therapy can be avoided. The probability of recurrence is also very low after the procedure.
The risks associated with the Mastectomy procedure are:
- Infection at the scar site.
- The area of surgery becomes extra sensitive.
- The fluid or blood may accumulate under the scar.
- The healing procedure is a bit slow.
The surgery is not the ultimate treatment for breast cancer, but it has been very effective in a lot of cases.
