Her Fight is Our Mission

Endoscopy-assisted mastectomy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to remove breast tissue through small, strategically placed incisions — often in  areas like the axilla (armpit). This approach is particularly well-suited for women who wish to avoid visible chest wall scars and prioritise cosmetic outcomes alongside cancer control.

At Apollo Athenaa Women’s Cancer Centre, endoscopy-assisted mastectomy is offered to eligible patients with early-stage breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), especially when combined with immediate reconstruction. The procedure reflects our philosophy of preserving form without compromising oncologic safety.

How the Procedure Is Performed

• The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.
• Small incisions are made, typically in the axilla, to allow endoscopic instruments to access the breast.
• The surgeon uses an endoscope (a thin, camera-equipped instrument) to visualise the breast tissue and carefully dissect and remove the entire glandular tissue.
• The skin envelope and, in many cases, the nipple–areola complex is preserved.
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary dissection is performed through the same incision if needed.
• Immediate breast reconstruction is often carried out during the same procedure using implants or flaps.
• Surgery duration ranges from 3 to 4.5 hours, depending on reconstruction complexity.

Recovery

• Hospital stay: Most patients are discharged within 1–2 days of surgery. Drain tubes may be placed and typically remain for 5–7 days.
• Pain management: Pain and discomfort are usually mild and well-managed with oral medications.
• Resuming routine: Daily activities can often be resumed within 7–10 days, with complete recovery in 3–4 weeks.
• Physiotherapy: Post-operative care includes wound monitoring, scar care, and guidance on arm mobility and posture.

Key Advantages

• Minimal visible scarring, with incisions placed away from the central breast for superior cosmetic outcomes
• Safe and complete removal of breast tissue, comparable to traditional mastectomy techniques
• Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery, thanks to the minimally invasive approach
• Ideal for immediate reconstruction, allowing for skin-sparing and nipple-sparing options 
• Lower risk of wound complications, particularly in patients prone to poor healing
• Better psychological and body image outcomes, especially in younger women or those prioritising aesthetic considerations

Continuum of Care

Endoscopy-assisted mastectomy is part of a personalised treatment pathway at Apollo Athenaa. After surgery, patients receive:

• Detailed pathology review to confirm complete tumour clearance
• Multidisciplinary tumour board input to plan adjuvant therapy if needed
• Close follow-up by surgical and plastic and breast reconstructive teams
• Supportive services including physiotherapy, scar therapy, and body image counselling
• Long-term surveillance through regular clinical reviews and imaging

At Apollo Athenaa, endoscopy-assisted mastectomy exemplifies our commitment to combining clinical precision with patient comfort and cosmetic excellence, empowering women to heal both physically and emotionally.