Mastectomy in Ahmedabad

The choice of surgery for breast cancer depends on several factors, including the size and location of the tumour, whether cancer affects multiple areas of the breast and the feasibility of preserving the breast. In some cases, mastectomy may be the most appropriate surgical option. At Sterling Hospitals, Ahmedabad, the specialist team evaluates the diagnosis and extent of the disease, discusses suitable treatment options with the patient and recommends mastectomy when clinically indicated.

What Is Mastectomy?

Mastectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove breast tissue, most commonly as part of breast cancer treatment. It involves removing the affected breast tissue, with the precise extent of surgery determined by the planned procedure. The operation may also involve examining or removing nearby lymph nodes to assess whether cancer has spread beyond the breast.

The procedure is planned based on the diagnostic findings and the overall treatment approach. Depending on the individual's needs, the treatment plan may also include other cancer therapies or breast reconstruction. The surgical team explains the proposed procedure, its implications and the available options before surgery.

When Is Mastectomy Recommended?

Mastectomy may be recommended when removing the entire breast is considered an appropriate approach to treating breast cancer. The decision depends on the extent of the disease, the feasibility of breast-conserving surgery and the patient's clinical circumstances.

Mastectomy may be considered in the following situations:

• When the tumour is large relative to the breast: Removing the tumour while preserving the breast may not be feasible in some cases.
• When cancer affects multiple areas of the breast: Breast-conserving surgery may not be suitable when cancer is present in several separate areas of the breast.
• When the cancer is inflammatory breast cancer: Mastectomy may form part of the treatment plan for this type of breast cancer.
• When cancer remains after breast-conserving surgery: Mastectomy may be recommended if further surgery cannot adequately remove the remaining cancer.
• When previous radiation therapy limits surgical options: Mastectomy may be considered when prior radiation to the breast makes further breast-conserving treatment unsuitable.
• When radiation therapy cannot be given: Mastectomy may be considered when radiation therapy, which is generally recommended after breast-conserving surgery, is not a suitable option.
• When the patient prefers mastectomy: After discussing the available surgical options, some patients may choose mastectomy over breast-conserving surgery.

Risk Reduction in High-Risk Individuals

Preventive mastectomy may be considered for individuals with a substantially increased risk of developing breast cancer, such as those with certain inherited genetic mutations, including BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. The decision requires an individual risk assessment and a discussion of the potential benefits, limitations and risks of surgery.

Types of Mastectomy We Perform at Sterling Hospitals, Ahmedabad

The type of mastectomy recommended depends on the extent and location of the cancer, the condition of the surrounding tissues, whether lymph node surgery is required and whether breast reconstruction is planned. The main types include the following.

Total or Simple Mastectomy

A total or simple mastectomy involves removing the entire breast, including the breast tissue, nipple and areola. The underlying chest muscles are preserved. Depending on the treatment plan, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may also be performed to check whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Modified Radical Mastectomy

A modified radical mastectomy involves removing the entire breast along with the lymph nodes in the armpit through an axillary lymph node dissection. The underlying chest muscles are generally preserved. This procedure may be considered when the clinical findings indicate that removal of these lymph nodes is necessary.

Skin-Sparing Mastectomy

A skin-sparing mastectomy removes the breast tissue, usually including the nipple and areola, while preserving most of the overlying breast skin. It may be considered when breast reconstruction is planned as part of the surgical treatment. Its suitability depends on the tumour's location, its relationship to the skin and other clinical factors.

Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy

A nipple-sparing mastectomy removes the breast tissue while preserving the skin, nipple and areola. It may be an option for selected individuals, particularly when the cancer does not involve the nipple or surrounding skin. The suitability of this approach depends on the location and extent of the disease, the blood supply to the preserved tissues and other surgical considerations.

Bilateral Mastectomy

A bilateral mastectomy involves removing both breasts. It may be recommended when cancer affects both breasts or considered as a preventive option for certain individuals with a substantially increased risk of breast cancer. Removing both breasts is not necessary for everyone diagnosed with cancer in one breast, and the decision requires an individualised assessment of the risks and benefits.

Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy

Breast reconstruction aims to restore the shape of the breast after mastectomy. It may be performed during the same operation or at a later stage. Depending on the individual's suitability and preferences, reconstruction may involve implants or tissue taken from another part of the body.

Reconstruction is optional. Some individuals may prefer to use a breast prosthesis or choose not to undergo further surgery. These options can be discussed with the treating team before making a decision about mastectomy.

Benefits of Mastectomy

Mastectomy may be an appropriate part of breast cancer treatment when removing the entire breast is indicated. Its potential benefits depend on the extent of the disease and the individual's treatment plan.

• Removes cancerous breast tissue: Mastectomy removes the breast tissue containing the known cancer, helping achieve local control of the disease.
• Offers an option when breast-conserving surgery is unsuitable: It allows the surgeon to remove the entire breast when preserving the breast is not considered an appropriate surgical approach.
• Addresses cancer affecting multiple areas of the breast: Mastectomy may be suitable when cancer is present in several separate areas and breast-conserving surgery is not appropriate.
• Reduces breast cancer risk in selected high-risk individuals: Preventive mastectomy can substantially reduce the risk of breast cancer in people with certain high-risk genetic mutations, although it cannot eliminate the risk entirely.
• Allows breast reconstruction to be considered: Reconstruction may be performed during the same operation or at a later stage, depending on the individual's suitability and treatment plan.

What to Expect Before, During and After Mastectomy at Sterling Hospitals, Ahmedabad

Understanding the surgical process can help individuals prepare for mastectomy and recovery. The exact steps depend on the type of surgery, whether lymph node removal or reconstruction is planned and the individual's overall health.

Before Mastectomy

The surgeon reviews the diagnosis, medical history, examination findings and relevant imaging and biopsy reports to determine the extent of the disease and discuss suitable treatment options. Additional investigations may be advised to assess the individual's fitness for surgery or clarify aspects of the diagnosis.

Before the procedure, the surgical team may:

• Explain the proposed operation, including the tissues to be removed and whether lymph node surgery is required.
• Discuss the potential benefits, risks, alternatives and expected recovery.
• Review current medicines, allergies and existing medical conditions. Instructions may be provided regarding medicines that affect blood clotting or blood sugar.
• Explain fasting requirements and other pre-operative instructions.
• Discuss breast reconstruction, if appropriate, including whether it may be performed during the same operation or at a later date.
• Provide guidance on preparing for recovery at home and arranging assistance with daily activities.

Individuals should inform the treating team about all medicines and supplements they take and follow the instructions provided before surgery.

On the Day of Surgery

Mastectomy is generally performed under general anaesthesia, so the individual is asleep during the operation. The surgeon makes an incision and removes the breast tissue according to the planned surgical technique. The nipple, areola and overlying skin may also be removed, depending on the type of mastectomy.

If indicated, the surgeon may perform a sentinel lymph node biopsy or remove additional lymph nodes from the armpit. Breast reconstruction may be performed during the same operation if it has been planned and is suitable.

After the procedure, the individual is monitored in the recovery area while the effects of anaesthesia wear off. Pain relief and other supportive care are provided as needed. A temporary surgical drain may be placed to collect fluid from the operated area.

The length of the operation and hospital stay varies depending on the extent of surgery, whether reconstruction is performed and the individual's recovery.

After Mastectomy

Recovery involves caring for the surgical wound, managing discomfort and gradually returning to daily activities. The treating team provides instructions according to the type of operation performed.

Post-operative care may include:

• Wound care: Keep the surgical area clean and follow the instructions provided for dressings, bathing and wound care.
• Drain management: If a drain has been placed, the care team will explain how to manage it and when it may be removed.
• Pain management: Take prescribed medicines as directed and report pain that is severe, worsening or not adequately controlled.
• Arm and shoulder movement: Begin recommended exercises at the appropriate time to help maintain mobility and reduce stiffness.
• Activity restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity until the surgeon advises that these can be resumed.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend scheduled reviews so the surgical wound, recovery and any post-operative concerns can be assessed.
• Further treatment: The final pathology report helps determine whether additional treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapy, may be recommended.

Recovery time varies. Individuals who undergo reconstruction or more extensive lymph node surgery may require additional recovery time. Emotional support and counselling may also be helpful when adjusting to changes in body image and physical sensation.

Risks and Complications of Mastectomy

Mastectomy is a major surgical procedure, and the possibility of complications depends on the type of operation, the individual's health and whether additional procedures are performed.

Potential risks and complications include:

• Bleeding: Bleeding may occur during or after surgery and may occasionally require further treatment.
• Infection: The surgical wound may become infected, requiring medical treatment.
• Fluid collection: Blood or clear fluid may collect beneath the skin, sometimes requiring drainage.
• Pain and discomfort: Pain, tenderness or tightness may occur around the surgical area during recovery.
• Scarring and changes in sensation: The operated area may have a visible scar, numbness or altered sensation in the chest, armpit or upper arm.
• Delayed wound healing: Healing may take longer in some individuals, particularly when other health conditions affect recovery.
• Restricted shoulder movement: Stiffness or reduced movement may occur, especially when lymph nodes are also removed.
• Lymphoedema: Swelling of the arm or nearby tissues can develop after lymph node removal because lymphatic drainage may be affected.
• Complications related to reconstruction: If reconstruction is performed, additional risks may include problems with wound healing, infection, implant-related complications or issues affecting the reconstructed tissue.
• Blood clots or anaesthesia-related complications: As with other major operations, these are possible, although the individual risk varies.

Seek medical advice promptly if there is increasing redness, swelling, wound discharge, fever, worsening pain or any other unexpected change during recovery. Sudden breathlessness, chest pain or significant swelling of one arm requires urgent medical assessment.

Mastectomy Cost in Ahmedabad

The cost of mastectomy in Ahmedabad varies according to the type of surgery required, the extent of the disease and the individual's treatment plan. A simple mastectomy may involve different costs from a procedure that includes extensive lymph node removal or breast reconstruction.

Factors that may influence the overall cost include:

• Type of mastectomy: The surgical technique and extent of tissue removal affect the complexity of the operation.
• Lymph node surgery: Sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection may add to the overall treatment cost.
• Breast reconstruction: Reconstruction using implants or tissue from another part of the body may involve additional surgical procedures and expenses.
• Pre-operative investigations: Imaging, biopsy reviews, blood tests and other assessments may contribute to the total cost.
• Hospital stay: The duration of admission and the level of post-operative care required can affect the final bill.
• Medicines and follow-up: Prescribed medicines, wound care, pathology investigations and follow-up appointments may form part of the overall expenditure.
• Additional cancer treatment: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapy, when indicated, may involve separate costs.

For an estimate, consult the treating team at Sterling Hospitals, Ahmedabad. The proposed treatment plan and an itemised estimate can help clarify the expected expenses and what is included.

Why Choose Sterling Hospitals, Ahmedabad for Mastectomy?

Mastectomy requires careful assessment of the breast condition, selection of an appropriate surgical approach and planning for recovery and any further treatment. When considering mastectomy at Sterling Hospitals, Ahmedabad, the following aspects are relevant to the treatment discussion:

• Assessment of surgical options: A specialist consultation can help establish whether mastectomy is appropriate and explain how it compares with other suitable surgical approaches.
• Individualised treatment planning: The surgical approach is determined by the diagnosis, extent of disease, relevant investigation findings and the individual's clinical circumstances.
• Consideration of lymph node assessment: Where indicated, the treatment plan may include assessment or removal of lymph nodes to help determine the extent of disease.
• Discussion of reconstruction options: Individuals considering reconstruction can discuss its suitability, timing and implications as part of pre-operative planning.
• Post-operative care and follow-up: Follow-up helps assess wound healing, address recovery concerns and review pathology findings to determine whether additional treatment is needed.

The recommended approach should be based on the individual's diagnosis, clinical findings and informed preferences.

Book an Appointment

If you have been advised to undergo a mastectomy or are exploring surgical options for a breast condition, consult the relevant specialist team at Sterling Hospitals, Ahmedabad. A specialist evaluation can help clarify the diagnosis, explain the available surgical approaches and discuss the potential need for further treatment.

Call +91 98989-87878 to book an appointment with a specialist. You can also book your appointment online through the Sterling Hospitals website.