Mastectomy surgery

After a diagnosis of early breast cancer or DCIS, your doctor may recommend a mastectomy. This is surgery to remove all breast tissue in one breast ('single' or 'unilateral' mastectomy) or both breasts ('double' or 'bilateral' mastectomy). Sometimes, this includes removing the nipple.

Usually, this surgery is recommended if:

• the breast cancer is large
• the tumour is large in proportion to your breast size
• there is more than 1 tumour in the breast
• you have inflammatory breast cancer.

We explain the procedures to help you discuss options with your surgeon and treating team. It may help if you also know whether you prefer breast reconstruction or staying flat after mastectomy. For help with that decision, read When to decide about breast reconstruction.