Mastectomy (Breast Diseases)

1-3 Hours

General anesthesia

Usually a few weeks to a few months.

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Overview

A mastectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the breast tissue. It is often used to treat breast cancer, but it may also be done to treat some benign breast conditions or as a preventive measure in people at high risk of developing breast cancer. The types of mastectomy vary depending on the amount of breast tissue removed and the goal of the surgery.

Procedure Details

  • Procedure: Mastectomy (Breast Diseases) – The specific procedure may vary (total mastectomy, modified radical mastectomy, skin-sparing mastectomy, etc.)
  • Duration: 1-3 hours (depending on the procedure and the amount of tissue removed)
  • Anesthesia: General anesthesia
  • Location: Atlas University Hospital – Istanbul
  • Possible Side Effects: Pain, swelling, bleeding, infection, limited arm movement (temporary), loss of sensation in the breast area.
  • Recovery Time: Varies depending on the type of surgery and the person’s overall health, usually a few weeks to a few months.
  • Expected Outcomes: Treatment and/or prevention of breast cancer, prolonged life expectancy, improved quality of life.

Daily Plan

  • Day 1:
    • Arrival in Istanbul and transfer to the hospital.
    • Pre-operative consultation and detailed examination with your surgeon. Evaluation of tests and planning of additional tests if needed.
    • Evaluation of breast tissue with imaging methods such as mammography, ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging.
    • Planning of simultaneous reconstruction surgery in consultation with a plastic surgeon, if necessary.
    • Surgical planning and discussion of expectations.
  • Day 2:
    • Mastectomy surgery.
    • Post-operative pain control and drain monitoring.
    • Hospital stay is usually 1-2 days.
  • Day 3:
    • Post-operative check-up by the surgeon.
    • Changing of dressings.
    • Starting arm exercises.
    • Discharge from the hospital and transfer to the hotel.
  • Day 4-5:
    • Rest at the hotel.
    • Continue arm exercises.
    • Gradual return to daily activities according to your doctor’s recommendations. Receiving pathology results and evaluation by the oncology department.
  • Day 6:
    • Return to your country.

Post-Operative Care

  • Use antibiotics and pain medications as recommended by your doctor.
  • Do arm exercises regularly.
  • Dress the surgical area as instructed, keep it clean and dry.
  • Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities.
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions and schedule a follow-up appointment with a local doctor after returning to your country.

FAQ

  • Q: Is mastectomy surgery painful?
    • A: Post-operative pain is expected, but it can be managed with pain medications.
  • Q: Can I use a breast prosthesis after mastectomy?
    • A: Yes, you can use a breast prosthesis after mastectomy. Your doctor will provide you with detailed information on this subject.
  • Q: What are the risks of mastectomy surgery?
    • A: There are risks such as bleeding, infection, loss of sensation, and lymphedema (arm swelling). Your doctor will explain the risks in detail.
  • Q: Who is suitable for mastectomy surgery?
    • A: Mastectomy may be performed in people diagnosed with breast cancer if the entire breast needs to be removed, in those at high risk of breast cancer, or to treat some benign breast conditions. Your doctor will evaluate your condition and determine if surgery is right for you.