Breast Cancer FAQ

1. What are the risk of having a mastectomy?

As with any surgery, there are possible risks. These include:

• Healing problems, such as infection and bleeding.
• Stiffness of the shoulder.
• Numbness - some numbness in the skin at the operated site and in the armpit will usually occur after a mastectomy or axillary clearance.
• Seroma - fluid under the arm and under the incision which can easily be drained in the specialist clinic with a needle.
• Lymphedema is a long-term slight swelling of the arm which will occur in 10-20% of patients.
• Skin necrosis - occasionally part of the skin edges may heal poorly and become wet. However, the wound will heal with daily dressings.

2. I have a mastectomy done. Is it possible for me to have cancer of the other breast?

Yes. Regular screenings and mammograms will be done for the other breast during your follow-up visits to the doctor. Do monthly breast self exams. Check both sides, tell your doctor if you notice changes from month to month.

3. What should I do if I experience stiffness, pain, swelling over my operated arm and fever for 3 days?

You should consult a doctor as soon as possible.