Mastectomy Options

A simple mastectomy, also called a total mastectomy, is one of the most common types of breast removal surgery. In this procedure, the entire breast—including the nipple, areola, and most of the breast skin—is removed, but the chest muscles underneath are left intact. Sometimes lymph nodes under the arm are also removed, but not always.

This surgery is performed to treat breast cancer or, in some cases, as a preventive step for women at very high risk of developing cancer.

How It Works

During a simple mastectomy:

• The surgeon removes all breast tissue, the nipple, and the areola.

• Most of the breast skin is also removed, unlike in skin-sparing or nipple-sparing approaches.

• The chest muscles beneath the breast are preserved.

• Depending on the case, a few lymph nodes may be removed for testing (called a sentinel lymph node biopsy).

• Reconstruction or flat closure can be performed immediately, or you may choose to delay reconstruction until later.

Who May Be a Candidate

A simple mastectomy may be recommended if:

• You have breast cancer that requires full removal of the breast.

• You carry a high-risk genetic mutation (such as BRCA) and choose preventive mastectomy.

• You have widespread or multiple areas of abnormal cells (like DCIS or LCIS).

• You prefer mastectomy over breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy).

Benefits of Simple (Total) Mastectomy

• Effective cancer treatment: Removes the full breast tissue to treat or prevent cancer.

• Preserves chest muscles: Allows for easier healing and supports reconstruction if desired.

• Option for prevention: Can significantly reduce cancer risk for women with strong family or genetic risk.

• Flexibility in closure: Can be followed by reconstruction with implants or flaps, or by aesthetic flat closure.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Appearance changes: The breast, nipple, and areola are removed, which may affect body image.

• Sensation loss: Most women lose feeling in the chest area after mastectomy, even with reconstruction.

• Scarring: A scar usually runs horizontally across the chest where the breast was removed.

• Recovery: Hospital stay may be 1–2 days, with several weeks of healing before returning to full activity.

• Future options: Reconstruction can be done immediately or years later if you decide later that you want it.

Emotional Considerations

For many women, a simple mastectomy brings peace of mind in knowing the cancer has been treated or risk reduced. At the same time, adjusting to the loss of the breast, nipple, and areola can be emotional. Some women choose reconstruction to restore shape, while others embrace flat closure. Both paths are valid and personal.

A Personal Choice

Simple mastectomy removes the breast safely and completely—while preserving your strength, dignity, and the power to choose what comes next. It is one of the most straightforward breast removal surgeries, and for many women, it offers clarity and effectiveness in treatment or prevention. Like all mastectomy types, it comes with physical and emotional adjustments, but support and information can make the journey easier.