What is the medical term for the surgical removal of a breast?

The surgical removal of a breast is referred to as a mastectomy. This procedure involves the complete or partial removal of breast tissue and is typically performed as a treatment for breast cancer or other breast conditions.

In a mastectomy, the surgeon may remove all the breast tissue, which is often necessary when dealing with malignant tumors, or in some cases, only a portion of the breast is removed, depending on the specific medical circumstances. This choice reflects a crucial aspect of breast cancer management and is aimed at eliminating cancerous cells to prevent further spread.

Other terms related to breast surgery include lumpectomy, which refers to the removal of a tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue, typically preserving the rest of the breast. Breast augmentation refers to the surgical procedure to increase breast size using implants, while reduction mammoplasty involves reducing breast size for cosmetic or medical reasons. Each of these procedures serves a different purpose and highlights the variety of surgical options available in breast care.