You only have to look in a magazine, watch the television, see commercials, films and billboard advertisements to realise that much is made of a woman's femininity, especially the breasts. The emphasis being on beautiful breasts and ample cleavage. So imagine the devastation to any woman, who is diagnosed with breast cancer and being told that the breast or breasts will have to be removed. The breast removal, known as a mastectomy can bring fear and trepidation even to the bravest of women. Things will never be the same again, as any sensation will cease and it will affect the woman's sexuality and emotions.
Types of Mastectomies
There are four types of mastectomy as explained in NHS Choices.
- Simple Mastectomy – removal of the breast tissue and some of the surrounding skin.
- Subcutaneous Mastectomy – breast tissue removal, leaving the surrounding skin. Removal of the nipple may sometimes occur.
- Radical Mastectomy- Everything is removed, breast tissue, covering skin, the two muscles behind the breast and lymph glands in the armpit. This type of removal only occurs if the cancer has travelled to the muscles.
- Modified Radical Mastectomy – The pectoral muscle is left untouched, but otherwise the removal is the same as a radical mastectomy.
What Happens?
The mastectomy itself is classed as simple surgery as explained by breastcancer.org. The breast is made up of fatty tissue, lobes and milk ducts. The breast tissue removal is far easier than removing an organ and the surgeon will remove as much of the breast tissue as possible to alleviate the possibility of the breast cancer recurring. The scar that is left is usually horizontal and about four inches long and will remain red for quite some time, but it will eventually fade, and will be hardly seen. The biggest impact on the person having the operation is the emotional aspect.
On waking from the operation you will find that you have drainage tubes connected as described by Bupa. These tubes are important and help with the draining of blood and other fluids produced by your body after the operation. Without these tubes the draining would have to be done manually by aspiration with a needle, which is not at all pleasant. The drains are emptied a couple of times a day and records are kept as to the amount of fluid removed. This is so that the surgeon can assess when the drains can be removed.
After the Operation
Once discharged from hospital and sent home you will initially need some help. There are certain things you will not be allowed to do. Reaching into cupboards, doing the housework or lifting of any kind, all are a definite no, no. You will be in pain, so take the medication you have been prescribed as the healing process will be quicker if you are pain free.
You will need to sleep in a semi sitting position, so either invest in more pillows, or if you have a reclining chair, consider moving it into the bedroom for a while until you are able to lie flat.
Because of the emotional effect a mastectomy has on the individual, you may need some counselling. At first you may not be able to look at yourself physically or in the mirror. This is perfectly OK. Take as much time as you need. Your hospital should be able to put you in touch with the people that can help and will provide you with brochures and leaflets that can answer your questions. Never be afraid to talk about your mastectomy to friends and family. Allow yourself to heal emotionally.
The hospital should also recommend exercises to help you regain your range of motion, otherwise you will lose it. The exercises should be gentle to begin with, your body will tell you how far you should push yourself. You will know when to stop. If you have had re-constructive surgery your surgeon will advise you when to start exercising.
Once you have recovered from your operation, live your life to the full. The operation has given you years more to enjoy, so go on, enjoy it.
Sources:
- NHS Choices – Mastectomy
- BreastCancer.org – Mastectomy
- Bupa – Breast Removal
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
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