Mastectomy

Skip Navigation
Mastectomy of right breast

A mastectomy is the removal of the entire breast. This is called total or simple mastectomy. In a modified radical mastectomy, the breast is removed along with the lymph nodes under the arm, the lining over the chest muscles, and sometimes part of the chest wall muscles.

Current as of: March 1, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Laura S. Dominici MD - General Surgery, Breast Surgical Oncology

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.