Mastectomy Types

A mastectomy is a procedure to surgically remove the breast or breasts when cancer has been detected. Mastectomy procedures vary depending on the type and size of the tumor, and the stage at which the tumor has progressed.

Total Mastectomy

• During a total mastectomy the breast is removed but the lymph nodes and surrounding muscles remain.

Modified Radical Mastectomy

• A modified radical mastectomy removes the entire breast, the lymph nodes and the lining that remains over the chest. The muscles are left intact.

Radical Mastectomy

• A radical mastectomy is used only when there are many tumors in the breast and cancer cells have spread to the chest wall. The breast, the lymph nodes, the muscles under the breast and some of the fatty tissue are removed.

Partial Mastectomy

• A partial mastectomy is performed during Stages I or II of breast cancer. Part of the breast tissue and some of the skin is removed along with the tumor.

Subcutaneous Mastectomy

• During a subcutaneous mastectomy, the physician removes the tumor and breast tissue, but the nipple and overlying skin remain.