Mastectomy

A mastectomy removes nearly 100% of breast tissue. This is often done for cancer, but it can also be done in special situations when a woman wishes to reduce her breast cancer risk. This surgery takes a few hours, and most women stay overnight in the hospital. For most women, pain is very well controlled with nerve blocks and oral pain medicine. Thanks to the use of nerve blocks, fewer women need narcotics after mastectomy. Some women require physical therapy after surgery to regain their range of motion.

Mastectomies can be followed by reconstruction to provide a new breast shape and size. However, more and more women are electing aesthetic flat closure with their mastectomies.

If you would like to know more or to find out if mastectomy is right for you, please call DBC at 302.386.8686 for an appointment.