Day theatre procedure
About this service
Mastectomy with axillary dissection is a surgical procedure performed in Windhoek that removes the breast together with the lymph nodes in the armpit, most often as part of breast cancer treatment. Removing the axillary lymph nodes helps determine whether cancer has spread and guides further treatment decisions. This is a significant operation that follows careful diagnosis, staging and discussion with your medical team.
At Eastgate Clinic this surgery is performed in our on-site day theatre by a visiting general surgeon, with your GP coordinating referral, support and follow-up in our rooms. Your doctor will walk you through what to expect at every stage.
What to expect
- Thorough consultation, staging and pre-operative planning in our rooms
- Under general anaesthesia the visiting surgeon removes the breast tissue and the lymph nodes from the armpit through one incision
- A drain may be placed temporarily to manage fluid as the area heals
- Recovery includes gradually regaining arm movement, guided by your doctor
- Follow-up appointments to review results and plan any further treatment
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A confirmed breast cancer diagnosis requiring surgical treatment
- A breast lump investigated and found to need mastectomy
- Involvement of the axillary lymph nodes needing assessment
- Referral from your GP or specialist for surgical treatment planning
- Need for surgery as part of a wider breast cancer care plan
Frequently asked questions
Why are the armpit lymph nodes removed during a mastectomy?
Breast cancer often spreads first to the axillary lymph nodes. Removing and examining them shows whether the cancer has travelled beyond the breast, which guides decisions about chemotherapy, radiotherapy or hormone treatment.
Will my arm swell after axillary dissection?
Some swelling of the arm, called lymphoedema, is possible because lymph drainage is reduced. Gentle exercises, avoiding injections and blood-pressure cuffs on that arm, and early reporting of swelling all help, and your doctor will show you what to do.
How long does recovery take after mastectomy with axillary dissection?
Most people are moving around within a day and back to light activities in two to four weeks. Drains usually come out within one to two weeks, and full shoulder movement returns gradually with the exercises you are given.
For referring doctors
This procedure can be booked in Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre in Windhoek, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your mastectomy with axillary dissection?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.