What is a mastectomy?

A mastectomy is surgery to remove a breast. There are many ways the surgery can be done. The type of surgery you will have depends on your situation and whether you plan to have reconstructive surgery.

If a mastectomy is done to cure or prevent cancer, the entire breast, including the nipple, is removed. The doctor may also check the nearby lymph nodes during the surgery.

After surgery, you'll probably stay overnight in the hospital. You may be able to go back to work or your normal routine in 3 to 6 weeks. It depends on the type of work you do.

When you find out that you have cancer, you may feel many emotions and may need some help coping. Seek out family, friends, and counsellors for support. You also can do things at home to make yourself feel better during treatment. Call the Canadian Cancer Society (1-888-939-3333) or visit www.cancer.ca to learn more.

What happens on the day of surgery?

• Follow the instructions exactly about when to stop eating and drinking, or your surgery may be cancelled. If your doctor has instructed you to take your medicines on the day of surgery, please do so using only a sip of water.
• Take a bath or shower before you come in for your surgery. Do not apply lotions, perfumes, deodorants, or nail polish.
• Remove all jewellery, piercings, and contact lenses.
• Leave your valuables at home.

At the hospital or surgery centre

• 
  Bring a picture ID.
• Before surgery you will be asked to repeat your full name, what surgery you are having, and what part of your body is being operated on. The area for surgery may be marked.
• A small tube (IV) will be placed in a vein, to give you fluids and medicine to help you relax. Because of the combination of medicines given to keep you comfortable, you may not remember much about the operating room.
• You will be kept comfortable and safe by your anesthesia provider. You will be asleep during the surgery.
• The surgery will take about 1 to 3 hours.
• As you wake up in the recovery room, the nurse will check to be sure you are stable and comfortable. It is important for you to tell your doctor and nurse how you feel and ask questions about any concerns you may have.
• You will have one or two tubes under your skin to drain fluid from the surgery area while you heal. The doctor will take these out 2 to 10 days after surgery.