Mastectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing one or both breasts, either partially or totally. It is performed by a specialized surgeon, mainly to treat or prevent breast cancer, but also in the context of certain benign conditions or a gender transition process. Mastectomy requires specific preparation and techniques tailored to each case, depending on the medical indication and the patient’s preferences.
The cost of a mastectomy varies considerably depending on the country, the reputation of the surgeon, the type of mastectomy performed (total, partial, preventive, or curative), and any possible coverage. Below is a comparative table of average prices observed in 2025.
| Country | Simple mastectomy | Bilateral mastectomy | Reconstructive mastectomy |
|---|---|---|---|
| France | €3,500 | €5,500 | €6,500 |
| United Kingdom | €4,200 | €6,200 | €7,500 |
| Germany | €4,500 | €6,900 | €8,000 |
| Netherlands | €4,000 | €6,000 | €7,000 |
| Italy | €3,800 | €5,600 | €6,800 |
| Tunisia | €2,000 | €3,200 | €4,500 |
| Turkey | €2,300 | €3,800 | €5,000 |
| Morocco | €2,100 | €3,500 | €4,700 |
| Czech Republic | €2,700 | €4,200 | €5,100 |
| Lithuania | €2,800 | €4,100 | €5,200 |
| Thailand | €2,600 | €4,000 | €5,500 |
| Poland | €2,900 | €4,300 | €5,600 |
| Belgium | €3,900 | €6,000 | €7,200 |
| Albania | €1,700 | €2,800 | €3,600 |
Average prices noted and updated in 2025; these may vary depending on the clinic and practitioner.
Mastectomy is generally covered by health insurance when performed for medical reasons (cancer, proven genetic risk, pathological gynecomastia, etc.). Procedures performed purely for cosmetic or preventive reasons without medical indication are not reimbursed. The precise terms vary depending on the country and insurance provider, so it’s recommended to check in advance.
The main objectives of mastectomy are to treat or prevent certain breast diseases, to improve quality of life, or to support a gender transition. Various techniques or related procedures may be offered depending on the case:
In recent years, mastectomy has benefited from major technological advances:
Mastectomy is performed under general anaesthetic and begins with disinfection and preparation of the operated area. The surgeon makes an incision, the layout of which varies depending on the type of mastectomy: simple (removal of breast tissue), total mastectomy (complete removal of the breast, sometimes with the nipple) or preserving the skin and/or nipple.
The surgeon carefully removes the mammary gland, and possibly the surrounding tissues depending on the indication (axillary lymph nodes if cancer is suspected). In some cases, minimally invasive or robot-assisted techniques are used. Preservation of the skin and/or nipple is possible in certain indications, which facilitates subsequent breast reconstruction.
Once the removal has been performed, the surgeon checks that there is no bleeding, and may place one or more drains to evacuate fluids. The tissues and skin are then sutured together. If immediate breast reconstruction is planned, it is carried out at the same time, either by implant or by autograft (flap or lipofilling).
The duration of a mastectomy generally varies from 1 h 30 to 3 h. The shortest procedures involve simple mastectomies, while procedures with immediate breast reconstruction or associated procedures (lymph node removal, flap) can exceed 3 hours.
The mastectomy itself is painless thanks to the general anaesthetic. After the operation, moderate to severe pain may be felt in the chest and armpit, depending on the extent of the operation. This pain is generally well controlled with appropriate painkillers as soon as the patient leaves the operating theatre.
Modern techniques, such as loco-regional anaesthesia or minimally invasive surgery, can significantly reduce post-operative pain. Most patients report discomfort or tension rather than sharp pain, with a gradual return to normal within a few days to a few weeks.
Post-operative follow-up is an essential step after a mastectomy. It helps assess and optimize the aesthetic and functional results, monitor healing, detect any complications at an early stage, and support the patient in their overall recovery (physical and psychological).
Immediately after the procedure, the breast (or operated area) often appears swollen, firm, or bruised (presence of hematomas). These phenomena are common and temporary.
The definitive aesthetic result, especially in the case of breast reconstruction, is generally only visible after 3 to 6 months, the time it takes for tissues to subside, stabilize, and scars to begin to fade. If a touch-up is necessary, additional time will be required for the result to evolve.
Mastectomy is a long-lasting procedure since the removed breast tissue does not grow back. However, the durability of the aesthetic result depends on several factors, especially in cases of reconstruction: natural aging of the skin, weight fluctuations, quality of the initial procedure, and possible late complications (capsule around an implant, skin sagging, etc.).
Regular check-ups with the surgeon and personalized follow-up make it possible to anticipate or quickly treat any alterations in the result over time.
After a mastectomy, moderate to severe pain may persist for a few days to a few weeks. This is controlled by painkillers, but residual discomfort (tightness, tension) may last longer, especially during arm movements.
Swelling (oedema) of the operated area is frequent, as well as the appearance of bruising, which gradually fades. Scars evolve over several months: they are initially red and thick, then gradually become lighter and softer. Their final appearance often takes 9 to 18 months to stabilize.
Like any surgery, mastectomy carries risks: infections, bleeding, delayed or poor healing, seroma (fluid under the skin), skin necrosis, anesthesia complications or, more rarely, impaired arm mobility (lymphedema).
Regular medical follow-up, adherence to post-operative instructions, and rapid alert in case of problems (redness, fever, persistent pain) help prevent most complications. Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon, as well as good communication with the care team, are key elements for optimizing the safety and outcome of a mastectomy.
