Mastectomy Patient Information
Date issued: November 2025
Review date: November 2027
Leaflet section: Breast Care
PDF: Mastectomy Patient Information.pdf [pdf] 143KB
West Devon and East Cornwall Breast Screening Service
This is removal of breast tissue, overlying skin and the nipple. It does not involve removal of muscle.
Before Surgery
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You will be medically assessed before your operation.
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The doctor will ask you to sign an electronic consent form. This will state the operation you are having, and it is important you understand it before signing. The side of your operation will be marked by an arrow with indelible pen prior to your surgery.
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You will be asked by the doctor if you consent for any tissue/fluid samples to be used for evaluation purposes, research, or quality control.
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You will be seen by an anaesthetist who will discuss with you any previous anaesthetics you have had, and any side effects you have suffered, e.g. sickness.
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If you have any specific dietary requirements, please tell the ward staff when you are admitted.
After Surgery
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The wound will be covered with a clear, waterproof dressing called Opsite. This will normally be removed 7-10 days after surgery.
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The stitches are dissolvable and do not need to be removed.
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There is no right or wrong time to look at your wound, this is your choice.
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You will have one or more drainage tubes in place. These help with the healing process by draining excess fluid. Your surgeon will decide when the tubes are removed. You will be allowed home with your drain(s) in place and return to the Primrose Unit for removal.
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To prevent stiffness in your shoulder, your Breast Care Nurse will advise you on appropriate exercises and give you a booklet of exercises. It is important to continue with these exercised after your discharge from hospital. You may notice an ache or pulling sensation during exercise, do not be concerned.
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You may feel numbness and tightness around the wound; this is part of the healing process.
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You may shower/bath with your Opsite dressing in place.
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You will be offered a fitting for a temporary (soft) prosthesis before discharge and also offered an appointment for a permanent prosthesis as appropriate.
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A follow-up appointment will be arranged for you. This is to check the wound and to discuss your results from the pathology report and any further treatment that may be necessary/advised.
Advice after Discharge
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Continue with your exercises and take pain relief as you feel necessary. (Do not exceed the recommended dose).
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You may bath/shower as before. Do not use talc or deodorant near the wound until healed as this may cause skin irritation.
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If you notice any inflammation, swelling or discharge from the wound until healed as this may cause skin irritation.
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If you notice any inflammation, swelling or discharge from the wound, contact your GP or Breast Care Nurse.
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You may feel tired for the first few weeks after your operation. Allow yourself time to adjust to the effects of surgery. Perform only light household duties for up to 2-3 weeks. Emotionally recovering from breast surgery can take some time.
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You may return to work when you feel able to do so and your GP is agreeable.
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If you have any queries or concerns once at home, please contact your GP surgery or Breast Care Nurse (Monday to Friday)
Further information will be provided on discharge from hospital.
Breast Awareness
You will have check-ups following your surgery, but it is advisable to be breast aware. This involves looking at and feeling your remaining breast (unless bilateral mastectomies), your scar and armpits for any change. By doing this periodically, you will know what is normal for you. Discuss any concerns with your GP or Breast Care Nurse.
Breast Care Nurse Answerphone:
01752 431898
Other formats
If you need this leaflet in another format such as Braille, large print, high contrast, British Sign Language or translated into another language, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
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01752 439694
