What type of doctor performs a mastectomy?

Who performs a mastectomy? A general surgeon performs a mastectomy. A general surgeon specializes in the surgical treatment of a wide variety of diseases, disorders and conditions. Some general surgeons specialize in the treatment of patients with breast disease; they may use the term breast surgeon.

Is a mastectomy major surgery?

Mastectomy is considered a major surgery for the below reasons: The procedure involves permanent removal of either one or both breasts, which itself is a major risk factor. Usually, the procedure may last up to 4 hours depending on the severity of the disease.

What is a single mastectomy called?

Print. A simple mastectomy (left) removes the breast tissue, nipple, areola and skin but not all the lymph nodes. A modified radical mastectomy (right) removes the entire breast — including the breast tissue, skin, areola and nipple — and most of the underarm (axillary) lymph nodes.

What is the average recovery time for a mastectomy?

It takes time to completely recover from a mastectomy. According to the American Cancer Society, most women can return to their normal activities in about 4 weeks . However, recovery can be longer for some individuals, potentially taking months.

Why are lymph nodes removed during mastectomy?

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, it’s important to find out how far the cancer has spread. To help find out if the cancer has spread outside the breast, one or more of the lymph nodes under the arm (axillary lymph nodes) are removed and checked in the lab. This is an important part of staging.

Can you walk after mastectomy?

Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting and vigorous exercise until the stitches are removed. Tell your caregiver what you do and he or she will help you make a personal plan for “what you can do when” after surgery. Walking is a normal activity that can be restarted right away.