Mastectomy Gold Coast

A mastectomy may be recommended when the cancer is large compared with the size of the breast, when there is cancer in more than one area of the breast, when changes such as DCIS are spread widely through the breast, or when radiotherapy is not possible or has been given to the breast before. Some people also choose a mastectomy for personal reasons, or because they carry a gene change that raises their risk. Dr Gault will explain which options suit your situation.

Not necessarily. For many people with early breast cancer, breast-conserving surgery followed by radiotherapy offers similar long-term survival to a mastectomy. The best option depends on the features of the cancer, your breast size, your health and your own preferences.

Often, yes. Reconstruction can be done during the same operation as the mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or at a later date (delayed reconstruction). Dr Gault performs non-flap reconstruction. If a flap reconstruction, which uses tissue from another part of your body, is a better option for you, he can refer you to an appropriate reconstructive surgeon.

No. Reconstruction is a personal choice, and some people choose to live without it. Others wear an external breast prosthesis, and you may be eligible for reimbursement through the Australian Government's External Breast Prostheses Reimbursement Program. Breast Cancer Network Australia has information to help with this decision.

It depends on your situation. For invasive breast cancer, a sentinel lymph node biopsy is often performed during the mastectomy to check the first few lymph nodes. If cancer has already been found in the lymph nodes, an axillary clearance may be recommended. See our axilla surgery page for more information.

A mastectomy usually requires one to two days in hospital, and a longer stay may be needed if breast reconstruction is performed at the same time. Dr Gault operates at Pindara Private Hospital, Benowa.

Recovery varies from person to person. You may go home with a drain, and you will usually be advised to avoid heavy lifting for a few weeks. Gentle arm and shoulder exercises help you regain movement, and Gault Surgery patients can access physiotherapy with Tara Redemski, an APA-titled Cancer and Lymphoedema Physiotherapist. Dr Gault and our breast care nurse will give you advice for your own recovery.

Like any surgery, a mastectomy carries risks. These can include infection, bleeding, fluid collection under the wound (seroma), problems with wound healing, numbness of the chest wall and inner upper arm, ongoing pain, shoulder stiffness and, if lymph nodes are removed, lymphoedema. There are also risks associated with the anaesthetic. Dr Gault will explain the risks that apply to you before surgery.

Some people do. Depending on the type and stage of the cancer, further treatment may include radiotherapy to the chest wall, chemotherapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapy. Your treatment plan is discussed within your multidisciplinary team, and Dr Gault works with your medical and radiation oncologists.

It is common to feel a sense of loss or to have concerns about body image after a mastectomy. Our breast care nurse, Julie, supports you and your family through surgery and recovery and can connect you with other support services. Your GP can also refer you to a psychologist if you would like extra support.

Costs vary depending on the type of mastectomy, whether reconstruction or lymph node surgery is included, the hospital and your level of health insurance cover. Please contact our rooms on (07) 5539 3999 to discuss the likely costs for your situation. You may also wish to check with your private health fund about your cover and any excess.

You can book by calling (07) 5539 3999 or by sending a message through the Quick Enquiry form on this page. A referral from your GP or another medical practitioner is needed to claim a Medicare rebate for your consultation. Our rooms are at Suite 11, Pindara Place, 13 Carrara Street, Benowa QLD 4217.