Experienced Hands Thoughtful Care
Modified Radical Mastectomy at Athenaa

What is Modified Radical
Mastectomy

Modified radical mastectomy involves the removal of the entire breast along with axillary lymph nodes (levels I and II, and sometimes level III). It is most often performed in patients with invasive breast cancer where lymph node involvement is suspected or confirmed. The procedure offers both disease control and important staging information that guides further treatment.

At Apollo Athenaa, modified radical mastectomy is performed with precision, compassion, and multidisciplinary planning. Our approach prioritizes safety, aesthetic closure, and post-surgical comfort — with options for immediate or delayed breast reconstruction.

How the Procedure
is Performed

At Apollo Athenaa, every surgical step is carefully planned and performed by experienced breast surgeons with a focus on safety, precision, and recovery.

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia
An incision is made to remove the entire breast tissue, the nipple–areola complex and overlying skin, while preserving the underlying muscles.
Axillary dissection is carried out to remove lymph nodes from levels I and II/III (within the armpit).
If immediate reconstruction is planned, coordination with the plastic and breast reconstructive surgery team ensures flap-based or implant-based reconstruction can be initiated immediately, at the same time as the mastectomy.
The total surgery time typically ranges from 2 to 3.5 hours.

Recovery

Healing at Apollo Athenaa is supported through structured post-operative care, counselling, and rehabilitation support.

Hospital Stay

Most patients are discharged within 2–3 days, depending on drain output and overall recovery. Drains are typically removed 7–10 days after surgery.

Pain Management

Post-operative discomfort is managed with pain medications; shoulder mobility exercises are encouraged early to avoid stiffness.

Resuming Routine

Most patients can return to routine activities within 3–4 weeks, with full recovery in 6–8 weeks.

Lymphedema Management

The team will also coordinate efforts with the physiotherapy and rehabilitation teams to reduce the risk of lymphedema post-surgery.

Key
Advantages

At Apollo Athenaa, surgery is thoughtfully planned with a personalized approach, ensuring safety, precision, and optimal outcomes.

Disease Control

Complete removal of both breast tissue and regional lymph nodes, allowing for accurate staging and better local control of disease.

Surgical Efficiency

Safe and effective technique for most operable breast cancers with lymph node involvement.

Functional Preservation

Preservation of muscle and nerves ensures better functional outcomes and reduces long-term complications.

Well-being Prioritized

Reconstruction can be done immediately or at a later stage based on patient preference and oncologic plan.

Integrated Care

Seamless integration with other treatments like chemotherapy or targeted therapy, as needed.

Continuum of Care

At Apollo Athenaa, our teams remain involved at every stage, ensuring that recovery is not only physical, but also emotional and empowering. Post-surgery, each woman is supported through

Detailed histopathology review to determine stage, margins, and further treatment needs

Regular surveillance with clinical exams and imaging to monitor for recurrence and support long-term health

Tumor board discussions to tailor adjuvant therapy (chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal therapy)

Post-surgical rehabilitation to restore arm movement, reduce swelling risk, and improve quality of life

Ongoing psychological and emotional support through counselling, survivorship planning, and support groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a modified radical mastectomy and when is it recommended?

01

A modified radical mastectomy involves removal of the entire breast along with regional lymph nodes in the armpit, while preserving the chest muscles. At Apollo Athenaa, it is recommended when cancer has spread to lymph nodes or when accurate staging and local control are required.

How is this different from a simple mastectomy?

02

Unlike a simple mastectomy, which removes only breast tissue, a modified radical mastectomy includes lymph node removal. Athenaa’s surgical team determines the most appropriate procedure based on imaging, biopsy results, and individual cancer behavior.

Will removal of lymph nodes affect arm movement or cause swelling?

03

Some patients may experience stiffness or swelling (lymphedema), but this is not universal. At Athenaa, careful surgical technique, nerve preservation, and early physiotherapy guidance help reduce long-term complications.

Can breast reconstruction be done after a modified radical mastectomy?

04

Yes. Immediate or delayed reconstruction may be possible depending on cancer stage and lymph node involvement. Athenaa’s surgeons plan reconstruction in coordination with the breast reconstructive team to ensure oncologic safety.

How long does recovery take after this surgery?

05

Most patients resume light activities within a few weeks. Full recovery varies based on lymph node removal and additional treatments. Apollo Athenaa provides structured post-operative care, physiotherapy support, and close follow-up to aid recovery.

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Experienced Hands Thoughtful Care Modified Radical Mastectomy at Athenaa

Experienced Hands Thoughtful Care
Modified Radical Mastectomy at Athenaa