Mastectomy: Before and After Surgery
Mastectomy represents a surgical procedure of fundamental importance in the treatment of breast cancer. This procedure, which involves the removal of the breast, can vary depending on the extent and type of tissue removed. Understanding the different forms of mastectomy, their indications, and the post-operative recovery process is essential for patients facing this challenge.
Types of Mastectomy
The mastectomy procedure does not come in a single standardized form but is available in different variants, each suited to specific clinical situations. The choice of the most appropriate type depends on factors such as the tumor’s extent, its location, and the individual characteristics of the patient.
Total mastectomy, also known as simple mastectomy, involves the complete removal of breast tissue, including the skin, nipple, and areola. This procedure leaves the underlying pectoral muscles intact and generally does not involve the axillary lymph nodes. It is the preferred option in cases of widespread tumors within the breast or as a preventive measure in high-risk patients.
In more advanced or aggressive cases, radical mastectomy may be necessary. This more invasive procedure involves removal not only of the entire breast but also the axillary lymph nodes and sometimes the pectoral muscles. Its use is reserved for situations where the tumor has already spread beyond the boundaries of the mammary gland.
An increasingly common approach is skin-sparing mastectomy. In this case, the mammary gland and often the nipple-areola complex are removed, but most of the skin envelope is preserved. This method greatly facilitates any breast reconstruction procedures, offering more satisfactory aesthetic results.
Subcutaneous mastectomy is an even more conservative variant. This surgery removes the glandular tissue while keeping the skin and, when possible, the nipple-areola complex intact. This technique is particularly indicated in preventive surgeries, especially for women with a genetic predisposition to breast cancer.
Finally, partial mastectomy, also known as quadrantectomy, involves the selective removal of the portion of the breast affected by the tumor, along with a margin of healthy surrounding tissue. This less invasive approach is often followed by radiotherapy treatments to ensure the elimination of any residual cancer cells.
The Crucial Role of Postoperative Bras
After mastectomy surgery, the healing and recovery process takes on fundamental importance. In this context, postoperative bras play a crucial role by providing physical support and contributing to the patient's psychological well-being.
Functions and Benefits
Postoperative bras are specifically designed to meet the needs of women who have undergone mastectomy. Their main functions include:
- Gentle but effective support for the chest and operated tissues, reducing the risk of complications and promoting optimal healing.
- Accommodation of any external prostheses or padding, essential to restore symmetry and the natural appearance of the bust.
- Protection of scars and drains, avoiding excessive pressure that could compromise the healing process.
- Reduction of the risk of lymphedema, a frequent complication after surgeries involving axillary lymph nodes.
- Improvement of overall comfort during the postoperative period, helping reduce discomfort and facilitating movement.
Distinctive Features
Post-mastectomy bras are characterized by a series of specific features designed to maximize comfort, functionality, and adaptability to the patient’s needs:
- Fabrics: made with soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic materials, free from abrasive seams, suitable for sensitive skin or skin undergoing oncological treatments. Some models also include antibacterial fabrics to reduce the risk of infections.
- Wide and adjustable straps: designed to evenly distribute weight without exerting excessive pressure on the shoulders, especially important in the presence of lymphedema or postoperative pain.
- Front closure: often equipped with front hooks or zippers to facilitate putting on and taking off, even with limited arm mobility.
- No underwires: to avoid irritation or trauma in the surgical area while still providing good support.
- Integrated internal pockets: present on both sides, allowing discreet and stable insertion of external breast prostheses or padding.
- High coverage over the chest and under the armpits: useful to support and protect healing scars and tissues.
- Discreet and elegant design: many models are also designed aesthetically to help the patient feel comfortable again with her body.
Timing and Usage
The use of the postoperative bra generally begins in the days immediately following surgery, once any drains have been removed. The exact timing is determined by the surgeon or oncologist, based on the patient's specific condition and postoperative course.
The use of these specialized bras is recommended continuously for a period that can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the type of surgery performed and any breast reconstruction undertaken. During this period, the postoperative bra plays a fundamental role in stabilizing the operated area, reducing the risk of complications, and promoting optimal recovery.
To support every woman against breast cancer, it is essential to identify the most suitable bra for each stage of therapy from the very beginning. Professional consultations that assist in this choice ensure greater comfort and well-being from the postoperative phase onward.
External Breast Prostheses and Dedicated Bras
External breast prostheses are the most effective solution for many women who choose not to undergo immediate or delayed reconstruction. Made of medical-grade silicone, they are designed to simulate the weight, shape, and consistency of a natural breast, contributing to the recovery of body image and psychological well-being. They are worn inside specially designed bras with internal pockets that ensure stability and discretion. These bras combine aesthetics, functionality, and comfort, allowing patients greater freedom of movement in daily life.
Even at this stage, the support of a professional who guides the choice is essential to identify the most comfortable and feminine underwear suitable for each woman.
Swim Prostheses and Specialized Swimwear
For women who want to maintain an active lifestyle even after mastectomy, there are breast prostheses designed for use in water. Swim prostheses are made from materials resistant to chlorine and saltwater, with a lighter and perforated structure to facilitate water drainage and quick drying.
They are paired with post-mastectomy swimsuits, designed with internal pockets, flat seams, and reinforced straps to ensure stability and security during swimming. This type of clothing allows women to enjoy moments of leisure and sport without sacrificing comfort or safety, actively contributing to the recovery of quality of life.
Final Considerations and Impact on Quality of Life
Mastectomy represents a profound change in a woman's life, with implications that go far beyond the purely physical aspect. The adoption of postoperative bras, external prostheses, and leisure solutions such as swim prostheses and specialized swimwear fits into a broader context of support and care, aimed not only at physical healing but also at psychological and emotional well-being. These tools, chosen and tailored to the needs of each patient, help restore a sense of normality, strengthen self-esteem, and accompany women toward full reclaiming of their bodies and daily lives. A personalized approach remains key to successfully navigating the journey after mastectomy: to be supported by an orthopedic technician, come visit us at Ortopedia in Via Taramelli 21/23 in Bergamo or contact us!
We are available at the phone number 035/212110 from Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and
from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, or at our email address: info@ortopediazambelli.it
All the news
