Double Mastectomy

Double mastectomy is the surgical removal of both breasts to treat or prevent cancer, and may also include removal of the lymph nodes in the armpit to test for cancer that might have spread. Some mastectomies may also include breast reconstruction surgery during the same operation, if enough breast tissue can be preserved.

Most double mastectomy surgeries are performed in the hospital under general anesthesia. You may need to stay in the hospital for a few days while you recover. If you are having lymph nodes removed, you will likely have a special dye administered to make them easier to see. If you are having radiation therapy after your mastectomy, speak with a radiation oncologist and your surgeon to see if your radiation therapy will affect your surgical results.