This kind of surgery removes as much of the breast tissue as possible. There are two types of mastectomy: modified radical mastectomy and total, or Halstead mastectomy.
- The modified radical mastectomy removes the nipple and areola, most of the breast skin, the breast tissue, and the lymph nodes in the armpit area (axilla).
- A total, or Halstead mastectomy removes the nipple and areola, the breast skin and tissue, and may also remove a part of the chest wall muscle underneath the breast. The lymph nodes in the armpit area (axilla) will also be removed and tested for cancer.
Without having breast reconstruction or plastic surgery done after the mastectomy, you will have a slightly curved scar at the incision, and the skin in the breast area will be flat. Taking good care of the scar will result in a fine light line, over time. You can use a prosthetic bra, which has pockets to hold a breast prosthesis, if you like, to balance your appearance. If you have opted to have immediate reconstruction, the surgeon will not remove much skin, so that it can be closed over the reconstructed breast. Some surgeons will agree to save the nipple and areola, but since cancer cells can remain in that tissue, it is risky to keep that intact. If you are concerned about how your reconstructed breast will appear without a nipple, remember that you can ask a plastic surgeon to construct a nipple from your remaining skin, and an areola can be simulated, as well.
A quadrantectomy is a partial mastectomy.
Read about finding a surgeon and dealing with health insurance.