Q. What are the different types of mastectomy?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
There are several different types of mastectomy, each with its specific approach to breast tissue removal. The choice of mastectomy type depends on factors like the extent of the disease, cancer stage, personal preferences, and the potential need for breast reconstruction. Here are the most common types of mastectomy:
1. Total or Simple Mastectomy: In this type of mastectomy, the entire breast is removed, including the breast tissue, nipple, and areola. The underlying chest muscles are typically left intact. This is often chosen when the cancer is confined to the breast and has not spread to the lymph nodes.
2. Modified Radical Mastectomy: In addition to the removal of the entire breast, a modified radical mastectomy includes the removal of some lymph nodes in the armpit (axillary lymph nodes). This is done to check for the presence of cancer cells and determine the extent of cancer spread to the lymph nodes.
3. Double or Bilateral Mastectomy: A double mastectomy involves the removal of both breasts. This may be recommended when an individual has cancer in both breasts or as a preventive measure for someone at high risk of developing breast cancer in the other breast.
4. Skin-Sparing Mastectomy: During a skin-sparing mastectomy, the surgeon preserves most of the breast skin, which can be important for breast reconstruction. The breast tissue underneath the skin is removed, including the nipple and areola.
5. Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: In this approach, the breast tissue is removed while preserving the breast skin, nipple, and areola. It is often used when immediate breast reconstruction is planned to maintain a natural appearance.
6. Subcutaneous Mastectomy: This type of mastectomy involves the removal of breast tissue, nipple, and areola, but most of the breast skin is retained. Subcutaneous mastectomies are often performed on transgender individuals as part of gender-affirming chest surgery.
7. Radical Mastectomy: While rarely performed today, a radical mastectomy involves the removal of the entire breast, chest muscles, and lymph nodes in the armpit. It was once a standard treatment for breast cancer but has largely been replaced by less extensive procedures.
8. Partial Mastectomy (Lumpectomy): A partial mastectomy, often called a lumpectomy, involves the removal of only the cancerous tumor and a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue. It is considered breast-conserving surgery and is followed by radiation therapy to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
The choice of mastectomy type is determined by the individual's specific medical condition, the extent of the disease, personal preferences, and the recommendations of their healthcare team. Breast reconstruction may also be part of the treatment plan, either immediately following the mastectomy or at a later time, depending on the patient's preferences and medical considerations.