# mastectomy

/mæˈstɛktəmi/ (US) · /mɑːstˈɛktəmi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mastectomy
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

a medical operation to remove one or both of a person's breasts. It is often done to treat or prevent breast cancer.

For teachers: a surgical procedure involving the removal of one or both breasts, typically performed for the treatment or prevention of breast cancer.

## Examples

- She decided to have a mastectomy after her diagnosis.
- The surgeon explained that a mastectomy might be necessary if the cancer is located in multiple areas of the breast tissue.
- Advances in reconstructive surgery have significantly improved the quality of life for patients who choose a mastectomy, allowing for a more natural appearance and reduced psychological distress following the procedure.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.