Mastectomy in Melbourne
Mastectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of breast tissue and is primarily performed to treat breast cancer or reduce cancer risk in high-risk individuals.
At Specialist Surgical Group, our experienced Melbourne-based surgeons provide comprehensive breast cancer care, offering various mastectomy techniques tailored to each patient’s specific medical needs and personal preferences.
The surgical process involves the removal of breast tissue through carefully planned incisions, with the extent of tissue removal depending on the specific type of mastectomy required. We utilise advanced surgical techniques and work closely with reconstruction specialists to provide patients with the best possible outcomes, combining effective cancer treatment with consideration for cosmetic results and quality of life.
We consult from our Essendon and Bundoora clinics, with procedures performed at accredited hospitals in Melbourne.
Call us today at (03) 9466 7338 to book a consultation.
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We are located in the heart of Essendon and Bundoora.
Is a mastectomy for you?
Mastectomy may be appropriate for you if:
- You have been diagnosed with breast cancer that cannot be effectively treated with breast-conserving surgery
- You have large tumours relative to your breast size, making breast conservation difficult
- You have multiple areas of cancer within the same breast (multicentric or multifocal disease)
- You carry genetic mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 that significantly increase your breast cancer risk
- You have had previous radiation therapy to the chest area, making additional radiation inadvisable
- You have inflammatory breast cancer or other aggressive cancer types requiring complete breast removal
- You prefer mastectomy over breast-conserving surgery for peace of mind or personal reasons
During your initial consultation, we will thoroughly assess your medical history, examine your condition, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if mastectomy is the most suitable option for your specific situation.
Potential benefits
- Comprehensive cancer removal. Mastectomy removes all breast tissue, providing thorough treatment for breast cancer and reducing the risk of local recurrence [1].
- Reduced need for radiation therapy. Many patients who undergo mastectomy do not require post-operative radiation therapy, unlike those who have breast-conserving surgery [2].
- Peace of mind for high-risk patients. For individuals with genetic predispositions to breast cancer, prophylactic mastectomy can significantly reduce future cancer risk [3].
- Reconstruction options available. Modern surgical techniques allow for immediate or delayed breast reconstruction, helping restore body image and confidence [4].
- Effective treatment for advanced cases. Mastectomy remains the most effective surgical option for larger tumours or cases where breast conservation is not feasible [5].
Potential risks
- Surgical complications. As with any major surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia [6].
- Lymphoedema development. If lymph nodes are removed during the procedure, there is a risk of chronic arm swelling that may require ongoing management [7].
- Changes in sensation. Most patients experience permanent changes in chest wall sensation, and some may develop chronic pain or phantom breast sensations [8].
- Psychological impact. The loss of a breast can affect body image, self-esteem, and emotional well-being, requiring support and adjustment time [9].
Book a consultation today
(03) 9466 7338Meet our breast surgeon
Your Mastectomy journey
Here’s what you can expect during your mastectomy journey. These steps provide a general overview; individual experiences may vary depending on your specific circumstances and the type of mastectomy recommended.
1. Initial consultation
Your surgical team will conduct thorough assessments, including a review of your medical history, a physical examination, and a discussion of the surgical options available to you.
We’ll arrange any necessary imaging studies and coordinate with other specialists involved in your care.
2. Pre-operative preparation
We’ll provide detailed pre-operative instructions, including dietary restrictions and medication adjustments.
Our team will discuss anaesthesia options and ensure you understand the surgical process and expected outcomes.
3. Surgical correction
The mastectomy procedure typically takes one to three hours under general anaesthesia.
Our surgeons use precise techniques to remove breast tissue while preserving healthy surrounding structures whenever possible.
4. Immediate post-operative care
You’ll recover in our monitored environment, where our nursing team manages pain control and monitors for any complications.
Drainage tubes may be placed temporarily to prevent fluid accumulation.
5. Early recovery and wound care
Most patients can return home within 1-2 days, depending on the extent of the surgery.
We provide comprehensive discharge instructions and arrange follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure a smooth recovery.
6. Rehabilitation and long-term recovery
Our team guides you through the healing process, including exercises to enhance arm mobility and manage scars.
We coordinate ongoing care with your oncology team and provide support for any decisions regarding reconstruction.
Book a consultation today
(03) 9466 7338Mastectomy FAQ
Most patients can resume light activities within a week and return to normal activities within four to six weeks. Complete healing typically occurs over 2-3 months, although individual recovery times vary depending on overall health and the extent of the surgery.
Whether you need radiation therapy depends on various factors, including cancer stage, lymph node involvement, and tumour characteristics. Many mastectomy patients do not require radiation, but our medical team will discuss this as part of your comprehensive treatment plan.
Yes, breast reconstruction is often possible and can be performed immediately during the mastectomy or delayed until after completion of other treatments. Our plastic surgery colleagues specialise in various reconstruction techniques to help restore your breast appearance.
Most patients regain full arm function, though this may take several weeks to months. We provide specific exercises to help restore mobility and strength. If lymph nodes are removed, additional precautions may be necessary to prevent lymphoedema.
We understand that mastectomy can be emotionally challenging. Our team can connect you with counselling services, support groups, and resources specifically designed for breast cancer patients to help you navigate this journey.
For many early-stage breast cancers, breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) combined with radiation therapy may be an option. Our surgeons will discuss all appropriate treatment alternatives based on your specific diagnosis and circumstances.
Before surgery, arrange items at waist level to avoid reaching overhead, prepare button-front clothing for easy dressing, and organise help with household tasks and childcare. Consider purchasing a special post-surgical bra and ensure you have someone available to assist with transportation.
Medical disclaimer
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations, and does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Individual circumstances vary significantly, and nothing on this page should be used as a substitute for personalised advice from a qualified medical professional.
If you have concerns about your health, please seek medical attention promptly. To discuss your specific condition and treatment options with our team, please book a consultation by calling us at (03) 9466 7338.
References
[1] Veronesi U, Cascinelli N, Mariani L, et al. Twenty-year follow-up of a randomized study comparing breast-conserving surgery with radical mastectomy for early breast cancer. N Engl J Med. 2002;347(16):1227-1232. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa020989
[2] Goethals A, Menon G, Rose J. Mastectomy. StatPearls. Updated November 10, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538212/
[3] Cardoso MJ, de Boniface J, Dodwell D, et al. Which real indications remain for mastectomy? Lancet Reg Health Am. 2024;33:100734. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(24)00061-9/fulltext
[4] Rajan KK, Fairhurst K, Birkbeck B, et al. Overall survival after mastectomy versus breast-conserving surgery with adjuvant radiotherapy for early-stage breast cancer: meta-analysis. BJS Open. 2024;8(3):zrae040. https://academic.oup.com/bjsopen/article/8/3/zrae040/7675985
[5] Li S, Li X, Li D, et al. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy in terms of patient survival rate and quality of life in breast cancer. Int J Qual Health Care. 2024;36(2):mzae043. https://academic.oup.com/intqhc/article/36/2/mzae043/7675300
[6] Plunkett A, Scott TL, Tracy E. Regional anaesthesia for breast cancer surgery: which block is best? Ann Palliat Med. 2024;13(5):1258-1264. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39168643/
[7] Al-Hilli Z, Boughey JC. Oncoplastic surgery in breast cancer. Surg Clin North Am. 2018;98(4):805-823. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30005776/
[8] Valero MG, Muhsen S, Moo TA, et al. Increase in utilization of nipple-sparing mastectomy for breast cancer: indications, complications, and oncologic outcomes. Ann Surg Oncol. 2020;27(2):344-351. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31823173/
[9] Dominici LS, Hu J, Zheng Y, et al. Association of local therapy with quality-of-life outcomes in young women with breast cancer. JAMA Surg. 2021;156(10):e213758. https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2021/breast-cancer-mastectomy-quality-of-life