Q. What are the potential risks and complications of mastectomy?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Mastectomy, like any surgical procedure, carries certain risks and potential complications. While many people undergo mastectomies with successful outcomes, it's important to be aware of the possible complications and discuss them with your healthcare team. Some potential risks and complications of mastectomy may include:

1. Infection: Infections at the surgical site can occur, which may require antibiotics and additional treatment.

2. Bleeding: Post-operative bleeding can occur, which might necessitate further surgical intervention.

3. Hematoma: A collection of blood within the surgical site (hematoma) can lead to swelling, pain, and potential infection.

4. Seroma: A seroma is a collection of clear fluid in the surgical area. This can cause discomfort and may require drainage.

5. Delayed Wound Healing: In some cases, the surgical incisions may take longer to heal than expected, which can increase the risk of infection.

6. Scar Formation: Scarring is a natural outcome of surgery. The size and visibility of the scars can vary, and in some cases, they may cause cosmetic concerns.

7. Change in Sensation: Mastectomy can result in altered or lost sensation in the chest area, particularly if nerves are damaged during the surgery.

8. Lymphedema: For mastectomies involving lymph node removal, lymphedema is a potential complication. It causes swelling in the arm on the side of the surgery due to impaired lymphatic drainage.

9. Chest Wall Pain: Some individuals experience chronic chest wall pain following a mastectomy. This pain may be due to nerve damage or scarring.

10. Complications of Anesthesia: Adverse reactions or complications related to anesthesia are possible.

11. Phantom Breast Pain: Some individuals report experiencing phantom breast pain or sensations after mastectomy, even if the breast is no longer present.

12. Psychological and Emotional Impact: Mastectomy can have significant emotional and psychological effects. Coping with body image changes and the loss of breasts can be challenging for some individuals.

13. Breast Reconstruction Complications: If breast reconstruction is performed during or after the mastectomy, there are additional risks associated with the reconstruction, including issues with the reconstructed breast, such as implant rupture or complications with tissue flaps.

It's important to discuss these potential risks and complications with your healthcare team before the surgery. They can provide information on how to minimize risks, manage complications, and make informed decisions about the procedure. Keep in mind that many individuals who undergo mastectomy experience positive outcomes and a significant improvement in their overall health and well-being, particularly in cases where the procedure is necessary for treating or preventing breast cancer.

Read Answer Right Arrow
Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Looking for expert medical advice and care can be a daunting task, especially when you need it urgently. But with Second Medic, you can connect with the best doctors in just a few minutes and have a private care conversation with them, all for free!

Our platform is designed to make it easy for you to get the medical advice and care you need without any hassle. Whether you have a minor health concern or a serious medical condition, our team of experienced doctors are here to help.

At Second Medic, we understand the importance of timely and reliable medical advice. That's why we've made it our mission to provide you with the best possible care, at the convenience of your own home.

Our platform is easy to use, and you can connect with a doctor in just a few simple steps. All you need to do is create an account, tell us about your health concern, and we'll match you with a doctor who has the expertise to help you.

You can then have a private care conversation with your doctor, where you can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any other concerns you may have. Our doctors will then provide you with expert advice and guidance on the next steps to take.

So, whether you're looking for medical advice, a second opinion, or a prescription refill, Second Medic has got you covered. With our platform, you can get the care you need, when you need it, all for free!