About Modified Radical Mastectomy
Key Highlights
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Effective local control and removal of breast cancer tissue.Preservation of the pectoralis major chest muscle for better cosmetic and functional outcomes compared to radical mastectomy.Allows for accurate staging of cancer through examination of axillary lymph nodes.Can be combined with immediate or delayed breast reconstruction.Often part of a comprehensive, multi-modal treatment plan including chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy.
Who is this surgery for?
- Diagnosis of invasive breast cancer where breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) is not a suitable option.
- Large tumor size relative to breast size.
- Multiple tumors in different areas of the breast.
- Previous radiation therapy to the breast or chest area.
- Inflammatory breast cancer.
- Patient preference for mastectomy over breast-conserving surgery.
- Certain genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2) that significantly increase cancer risk.
How to prepare
- Complete pre-operative medical evaluation, including blood tests, ECG, and chest X-ray.
- Detailed discussion with the surgical oncologist about the procedure, risks, benefits, and reconstruction options.
- Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin) as advised by the doctor.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before the surgery.
- Arranging for help at home and planning for the recovery period post-discharge.
- Marking the surgical site by the surgeon on the day of the procedure.
Risks & possible complications
- General surgical risks: Bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
- Lymphedema: Swelling of the arm due to lymph node removal.
- Numbness, tingling, or pain in the chest, underarm, or upper arm.
- Limited shoulder mobility or stiffness, requiring physical therapy.
- Seroma: Accumulation of fluid under the skin at the surgical site.
- Psychological and emotional impact related to body image changes.
- Rare risks include damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay typically lasts 1-3 days for monitoring and initial pain management.
- Drainage tubes are placed to remove fluid from the surgical site and are usually removed within 1-2 weeks.
- Pain is managed with prescribed medications; strenuous activity and heavy lifting are to be avoided for several weeks.
- Specific arm exercises are prescribed to restore shoulder mobility and prevent stiffness.
- Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing, discuss pathology reports, and plan further treatment (if needed).
- Emotional support and counseling are recommended to cope with the physical and psychological changes.
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Typical hospital stay: 1-3 days
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Expected recovery time: 4-6 weeks for basic activities; several months for full strength and sensation
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering modified radical mastectomy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with surgical oncology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform modified radical mastectomy. MediFyr helps you compare surgical oncologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for modified radical mastectomy compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 150 Thousand – 400 Thousand | 1-3 days | ~ 4-6 weeks for basic activities; several months for full strength and sensation | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 525 Thousand – 1.4 Million | 1-3 days | ~ 4-6 weeks for basic activities; several months for full strength and sensation | Know More |
Anjali Nair, a 52-year-old high school...
Anjali Nair, a 52-year-old high school biology teacher and mother of two, discovered a firm, immovable lump in her upper outer right breast during a routine self-exam. A mammogram and subsequent biopsy confirmed invasive ductal carcinoma, ER/PR positive, HER2-negative. A genetic test revealed she was BRCA1 negative. Given the tumor's size (3.2 cm) and involvement of two nearby lymph nodes on ultrasound, her surgical oncologist, Dr. Evans, recommended a Modified Radical Mastectomy. He explained it would remove all breast tissue, the nipple, and the affected lymph nodes in her armpit, offering her the best chance at eliminating the local disease while preserving her chest muscles for better function. Anjali's surgery went smoothly. The initial recovery in the hospital was challenging due to pain and the adjustment to the surgical drains. At home, she diligently worked with a physical therapist to regain arm mobility and manage lymphedema risk. A year later, she is cancer-free, on adjuvant hormone therapy, and has undergone breast reconstruction. Emotionally, she felt a profound loss of a part of her identity and femininity pre-surgery, coupled with fear for her future. Post-recovery, her perspective shifted to immense gratitude for her life and health. She now volunteers with a cancer support group, channeling her experience into empowering other women.
Surgical Oncologists for Modified Radical Mastectomy
Explore experienced surgical oncologists who regularly perform modified radical mastectomy and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 9 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar
- 11 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 39 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 20 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore