What Are Mastectomy Scars?

Mastectomy scars are the physical marks that form following the surgical removal of breast tissue. The extent of scarring is dependent on the type of mastectomy that is performed. Generally conducted as a treatment for breast cancer, some women opt for mastectomy surgery as a preventive measure.

Depending on the circumstances, a mastectomy may be performed to remove breast tissue in its entirety or in part. The type of surgery performed is usually dictated by the location and staging of the cancer. Additional factors involved with determining the proper course of treatment can include the age of the individual and her overall health.

A partial mastectomy may be performed one of two ways. Depending on how invasive the cancer is, the attending surgeon may conduct either a lumpectomy or quadrantectomy. The only difference between the approaches is the amount of breast tissue removed. In either case, re-excision is possible, meaning additional breast tissue may need to be removed at a later date.

Though a modified radical mastectomy (MRM), also known as a simple mastectomy, is not as drastic as a radical mastectomy, it still involves the removal of all breast tissue. Unlike a radical mastectomy, an MRM leaves the muscles beneath the breast intact. A complete mastectomy, known commonly as a radical mastectomy, involves the removal of the entire breast, including all surrounding lymph nodes, underlying tissue, and muscle.

It is not uncommon for some women with a familial history of breast cancer to seek a precautionary radical mastectomy. Known as a prophylactic mastectomy, this procedure involves excising the entire breast and may or may not include removing the overlying skin and nipple. Considered a drastic measure by many, a precautionary radical mastectomy is generally reserved for individuals at a significantly high risk for malignancy. Generally, women who undergo a precautionary mastectomy will have both their breasts removed at the same time.

Depending on the individual’s preference, breast reconstruction surgery may or may not be performed at the same time as a mastectomy. Following a mastectomy, women usually undergo additional anti-cancer therapies, including radiation. As the affected area heals, mastectomy scars emerge.

It is not uncommon for some women to take pride in their mastectomy scars and honor them by getting a mastectomy tattoo. Over the years, mastectomy tattoos have become increasingly popular. Often called medical tattoos, a mastectomy tattoo is designed to make mastectomy scars less noticeable and the breast’s appearance as natural as possible. Tattooing to cover mastectomy scars may serve an aesthetic purpose or as a creative outlet so one's story may be told through design.