Her Fight is Our Mission

A simple mastectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the entire breast tissue, typically including the nipple–areola complex, to treat or prevent breast cancer. It is most commonly recommended for women with early-stage breast cancer, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), or those at high genetic risk who opt for risk-reducing surgery.

At Apollo Athenaa Women’s Cancer Centre, simple mastectomy is performed with a focus on safety, complete tumour removal, and preserving chest wall aesthetics for breast reconstruction. Our expert surgical oncologists ensure that every surgical plan is tailored to the patient’s diagnosis, breast anatomy, emotional readiness, and long-term health goals.

How the Procedure Is Performed

• The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
• An incision is made on the breast to remove the entire breast tissue, the nipple–areola complex and overlying skin, while preserving the underlying chest wall muscles.
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy may be done during the same procedure if staging is required; otherwise, lymph nodes are not routinely removed. The sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node (or group of nodes) to which cancer cells are most likely to spread from a primary tumour. A sentinel node biopsy is a medical procedure used to determine whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.

If immediate reconstruction is planned:

• The surgical oncology team coordinates with plastic and breast reconstructive surgeons preoperatively to discuss the various reconstructive options with the patient before deciding on the best option in that patient
• Additional steps are taken to prepare the site for a flap or implant-based reconstruction.

If reconstruction is not performed at the same time:

• The skin is closed in a smooth, flat contour for ease of prosthetic use or delayed reconstruction.

The total surgery duration is approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

Recovery

• Hospital stay: Most patients spend 1–2 days in the hospital following a simple mastectomy. Drain tubes may be placed to prevent fluid buildup and are usually removed within 5–10 days.
• Pain management: Pain and discomfort are mild to moderate and managed with oral medication.
• Physiotherapy: Mobility and arm movement are encouraged early to prevent stiffness.
• Resuming routine: Patients can usually resume light activity within 1–2 weeks and full routine by 4–6 weeks, depending on healing and whether reconstruction was performed.

Our expert surgical oncology team provides comprehensive post-operative instructions, scar care advice, and physiotherapy support when needed to ensure smooth healing.

Key Advantages

• Complete removal of breast tissue reduces the risk of recurrence, especially in high-risk or multicentric disease.
• Short, safe surgery with minimal blood loss and rapid recovery.
• Can be combined with immediate reconstruction, preserving body image and emotional well-being.
• Personalised surgical planning ensures optimal cosmetic outcomes and long-term comfort, whether or not reconstruction is chosen.

Continuum of Care

At Apollo Athenaa, simple mastectomy is just one part of a woman’s larger healing journey. 

Following surgery, each patient is supported through:

• Detailed histopathology review to guide further treatment
• Multidisciplinary tumour board discussions to recommend adjuvant therapy if needed
• Post-surgical counselling, including emotional and prosthetic support for those who defer reconstruction
• Follow-up planning: Regular clinical exams and imaging as per protocol
• Rehabilitation and survivorship care, including physiotherapy, nutrition, and mental health services

Our surgical oncology team remains involved at every stage, ensuring that recovery is not only physical, but also emotional, informed, and empowering.