A mastectomy is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. Learn about your options for surgery and the latest advancements in care.
Preventative
Mastectomy
A risk-reducing (prophylactic) mastectomy occurs before a cancer has been found. Often performed after a positive test for hereditary breast cancer gene like BRCA 1 or 2.
Nipple Sparing
Mastectomy
Often utilized in a risk-reducing, prophylactic mastectomy. An inframammary incision (in the breast fold) is made and the underlying breast tissue is removed, while retaining the skin, nipple and areola.
Skin Sparing
Mastectomy
A mastectomy in which a surgeon preserves as much of the breast skin as possible. The nipple and areola are removed and then, through a small opening, breast tissue is removed.
Simple
Mastectomy
The entire breast, including the skin, nipple and areola are removed (without removal of the lymph nodes from the armpit). The procedure is done by an elliptical incision leaving a single scar across the chest.
Radical
Mastectomy
The entire breast is removed including the skin, nipple, areola, the lining over the chest muscle and the lymph nodes under the armpit. The chest muscle itself is not removed.
Partial
Mastectomy
The removal of the cancerous part of the breast tissue and some normal tissue around it. Lumpectomy is technically a form of partial mastectomy, however, more tissue is removed in partial mastectomy than in lumpectomy.
