Mastectomy (Breast Tissue Removal for Cancer Treatment)

· Those in Mexicali, Mexico for 3 days or more.
· Those with the risk of developing breast cancer.
· Those with early-stage breast cancer.
· Those who can’t undergo lumpectomy for tumor removal.
· Those who have had a lumpectomy, but cancer is still present at the edges of the operated area.

A mastectomy is a breast tissue removal surgery as a way to treat or prevent breast cancer. Doctors may suggest a mastectomy as a treatment for breast cancer, or if you are at high risk at developing it. With the latest techniques in mastectomy, you may be able to preserve breast skin to get a more natural appearance. Some women may be bothered with the idea to remove the breasts in order to treat or prevent breast cancer, but there is always an option to reconstruct the breasts if you wish to do so, using an implant (surgical method) or using a breast prosthesis inside the bra (non-surgical method).

Depending on your condition, the doctor will determine the suitable mastectomy for you - either removal of one breast (unilateral mastectomy) or both breasts (bilateral mastectomy).

In the surgery, the breast will be cut open in a horizontal line, breast tissues present in the breast will be completely removed; and in some cases lymph nodes are also removed. Threads will be used to sew back the breast afterwards.

1. Marking of the surgical site will be done.
2. Anesthesia will be administered.
3. Incision will be made in order to remove the mammary glands and fat.
4. Chest will be compressed with tape and sutured with threads.
5. End of treatment.

<Advantages>
· Safe procedure
· Usually radiotherapy is not needed after the surgery
· Good option of treatment for breast cancer
· Reduces risks of developing breast cancer for those at risk
· Natural finish

<Limitations>
· Possible redness, swelling and soreness in some patients
· Shoulder pain and stiffness
· Numbness can occur under the arm, where lymph node is removed

Just like any other surgery, mastectomy carries risks such as:
· Bleeding
· Infection
· Pain for a few days
· Swelling (lymphedema) in your arm if you have an axillary node dissection
· Formation of hard scar tissue at the surgical site

· You need to inform the doctor before the surgery if you are sensitive to or allergic to any medicines, latex, tape, and anesthesia medicines (local and general).
· If you are on any medications or supplements, it is best to inform the doctors before deciding to do the surgery.
· It is a must to inform if you have a history of bleeding disorders or you are taking any blood-thinning medicine such as aspirin, ibuprofen. You might need to stop the medication for some time before the surgery.
· Quit smoking at least 2 to 4 weeks prior to surgery.
· You may be asked to not eat or drink a few hours before the surgery.

· Recovery can take a few weeks before you are finally cleared by the doctor, so take a lot of rest to allow faster recovery
· Take the medication as prescribed
· Do arm exercises as recommended by the doctor on a regular basis to prevent stiffness
· You may feel a crawling or itchy sensation in a few months, but it will fade, or you can take analgesics should it persist.

Q1: Can I reconstruct my breast if I have undergone mastectomy to prevent breast cancer?
A1: Yes, breast reconstruction surgery can be done to rebuild the breast. You can also opt to have it done together with mastectomy. Overall treatment would take 5 to 6 hours.

Q2: Will I feel sore after the mastectomy?
A2: Yes, some soreness will be felt and it will disappear within 7 days.

Q3: Do I need to stay hospitalized?
A3: In some cases, hospitalization for 3 days will be advised.

Q4: How long will it take for me to recover?
A4: Give yourself a few weeks to heal and relax. Have someone to help with laundry, meal preparation and other chores to allow the area to heal. You may also need around 6 weeks before returning to work.

Q5: When can I start wearing a prosthesis or bra after mastectomy?
A5: The doctor will share with you the time you need to wait before wearing a bra. This is because mastectomy requires some time to heal, especially if you’ve had mastectomy with reconstruction.

[Clinic Name] Hospital de la Familia
[Location] Mexicali, Mexico
[Nearest Stations / Attractions] The hospital is about 17 mins drive from Mexicali International Airport and 10 mins drive from Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mexicali
[Clinic Opening Time] Monday - Sunday (24 hrs)