An intravenous line (IV) is started to administer fluids and medication during the procedure. The patient is taken to the preoperative holding area and must stay in bed from this point on, except to use the bathroom. Sedation is sometimes given in the preoperative holding area, but the anesthesia is administered in the operating room.

A mastectomy is a surgical procedure breast cancer patients opt for to remove the breast. Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is very common. There are several different types of mastectomy options and other breast conservation therapy alternatives available depending on the patient’s age, general health, menopause status, tumor size, tumor stage (how far it has spread), tumor grade (aggressiveness), tumor’s hormone receptor status and lymph nodes involvement. Here you will get a brief description of each type of mastectomy. You will also have access to experienced oncologists around Baltimore that can help you understand and decide which breast cancer treatment option is best. Be brave and stay strong.