Treatment After Mastectomy Breast Cancer
Explore effective treatment options after mastectomy for breast cancer, including chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, and emotional support. Learn how post-mastectomy care aids recovery and long-term wellness.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 12th Jul, 2025
Introduction
Undergoing a mastectomy (surgical removal of one or both breasts) is a significant step in the breast cancer treatment journey. While the surgery helps remove cancerous tissue, the recovery and post-treatment phase is equally crucial for physical and emotional healing. If you or a loved one has had a mastectomy, understanding what comes next can help you navigate this phase with confidence and care.
What Happens After a Mastectomy?
After the surgery, your doctor will guide you on the next steps, which may include:
1. Recovery from Surgery: Healing takes time, and you may experience pain, swelling, or limited arm movement. Follow your doctor’s instructions on wound care, medications, and physical therapy.
2. Additional Treatments: Depending on the cancer stage, you may need:
Radiation therapy (to destroy remaining cancer cells).
Chemotherapy (if cancer has spread).
Hormone therapy (for hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer).
Targeted therapy (for specific types like HER2-positive breast cancer).
3. Reconstruction Options: Some women opt for breast reconstruction (immediate or delayed), while others choose prosthetics. Discuss options with your surgeon.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Managing Physical and Emotional Health
1. Physical Recovery Tips
Pain Management: Take prescribed pain relievers and avoid strenuous activities.
Lymphatic Care: If lymph nodes were removed, you may be at risk for lymphoedema (arm swelling). Gentle exercises and avoiding heavy lifting can help.
Physical Therapy: Shoulder and arm exercises improve mobility and reduce stiffness.
2. Emotional Well-being
Seek Support: Talking to a counsellor, joining support groups, or connecting with survivors can ease anxiety and depression.
Body Image Concerns: It’s normal to feel self-conscious. Consider counselling or breast prostheses if needed.
Lifestyle Adjustments for Better Health
Some of the lifestyle adjustments for better health are:
1. Healthy Eating
Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Limit processed foods and sugar to reduce inflammation.
Stay hydrated to aid recovery.
2. Gentle Exercise
Walking, yoga, or light stretching can improve strength and mood.
Avoid heavy lifting until fully healed.
3. Regular Follow-ups
Schedule routine check-ups and mammograms (if one breast remains).
Report any unusual symptoms like pain, swelling, or lumps immediately.
When to Seek Help?
Contact your doctor if you notice:
Fever or signs of infection.
Severe pain or swelling.
Persistent fatigue or emotional distress.
Conclusion
Recovering from a mastectomy takes time, patience, and support. By following medical advice, staying active, and seeking emotional help, you can regain strength and confidence. Remember, you’re not alone; many resources and healthcare professionals are here to guide you.
Consult Top Breast Surgeon
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Aniket Dave
Plastic Surgeon
8 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)
Ahmedabad
Apollo Hospitals - Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Ahmedabad
Dr. Bhukya Pavan Kalyan
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS DNB Paediatrics
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Sudip Roy
General and Laparoscopic Surgeon
33 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DA, FRCS - General Surgery (RCPS , Glasgow)
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
(200+ Patients)
Dr. Amit Choraria
Surgical Oncologist
18 Years • MBBS, MS (Surgery) Fellow, Surgical Oncology, Tata Medical Center (FSO) Fellow, European Board of Surgery (Surgical Oncology) (FEBS) Fellow, Minimal Access Surgery (FMAS) Fellow, Indian Association of Gastrointestinal Endosurgeons (FIAGES) UICC Fellow, Royal Marsden NHS, London, UK Visiting Scholar, Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, CGMH, Taiwan Fellow, Robotic Surgical Oncology, Vattikuti Foundation, USA
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Asha Reddy
Breast Surgeon
5 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgeon), Masters Oncoplastic Breast surgery, (UK) Fellowship in Breast Oncology (Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai ), Fellow of the European Board of Surgery (FEBS), Fellow of American College of Surgeons (FACS )
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Cancer Centre Nandanam, Chennai
(125+ Patients)
Consult Top Breast Surgeon
Dr. Aniket Dave
Plastic Surgeon
8 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)
Ahmedabad
Apollo Hospitals - Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Ahmedabad
Dr. Bhukya Pavan Kalyan
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS DNB Paediatrics
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Sudip Roy
General and Laparoscopic Surgeon
33 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DA, FRCS - General Surgery (RCPS , Glasgow)
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
(200+ Patients)
Dr. Amit Choraria
Surgical Oncologist
18 Years • MBBS, MS (Surgery) Fellow, Surgical Oncology, Tata Medical Center (FSO) Fellow, European Board of Surgery (Surgical Oncology) (FEBS) Fellow, Minimal Access Surgery (FMAS) Fellow, Indian Association of Gastrointestinal Endosurgeons (FIAGES) UICC Fellow, Royal Marsden NHS, London, UK Visiting Scholar, Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, CGMH, Taiwan Fellow, Robotic Surgical Oncology, Vattikuti Foundation, USA
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Asha Reddy
Breast Surgeon
5 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgeon), Masters Oncoplastic Breast surgery, (UK) Fellowship in Breast Oncology (Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai ), Fellow of the European Board of Surgery (FEBS), Fellow of American College of Surgeons (FACS )
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Cancer Centre Nandanam, Chennai
(125+ Patients)
