Breast surgery, including procedures like mastectomy, is a surgical intervention aimed at treating various conditions affecting the breasts. One common reason for breast surgery is breast cancer, where the removal of cancerous tissue or the entire breast may be necessary to prevent the spread of cancer cells. Mastectomy involves the surgical removal of one or both breasts, either partially or completely, depending on the extent of the disease and the patient’s preferences.

There are several types of mastectomy procedures:

1. Total mastectomy (simple mastectomy): In this procedure, the entire breast tissue is removed, including the nipple and areola, but the underlying chest muscles are preserved. It is typically performed when the cancer is confined to the breast tissue and has not spread to the lymph nodes.

2. Modified radical mastectomy: This procedure involves the removal of the entire breast, including the nipple and areola, as well as the axillary lymph nodes under the arm. It is often recommended when the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.

3. Skin-sparing mastectomy: In this procedure, the breast tissue is removed while preserving the breast skin, nipple, and areola. It is commonly performed for patients undergoing immediate breast reconstruction.

4. Nipple-sparing mastectomy: Similar to skin-sparing mastectomy, this procedure preserves the breast skin, nipple, and areola, while removing the underlying breast tissue. It is typically offered to patients with early-stage breast cancer who are candidates for breast reconstruction.

5. Radical mastectomy: This procedure, which is rarely performed today, involves the removal of the entire breast, underlying chest muscles, and lymph nodes in the armpit. It was once the standard treatment for breast cancer but has been largely replaced by less invasive procedures.

Breast surgery, including mastectomy, can have significant physical and emotional effects on patients. In addition to the surgical procedure itself, patients may experience pain, swelling, and changes in sensation in the chest area. Many patients also undergo breast reconstruction following mastectomy to restore the shape and appearance of the breast.

It is essential for patients undergoing breast surgery to have access to comprehensive care, including preoperative counseling, surgical expertise, and postoperative support. This may involve a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including surgeons, oncologists, nurses, and counselors, to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients undergoing breast surgery.