Mastectomy with Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) is a highly effective surgical approach in the treatment of breast cancer. This combined procedure involves the removal of the entire breast (mastectomy) along with a targeted evaluation of the first lymph nodes that drain the tumour area — called sentinel lymph nodes.

The sentinel lymph node is the first potential site of cancer spread. By identifying and removing just these nodes for testing, unnecessary removal of multiple lymph nodes can be avoided, significantly reducing complications such as lymphedema, pain, and restricted arm movement.

Dr. Kanmani Govindrao Telkar, an experienced Breast Oncoplastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, specializes in performing mastectomy with sentinel lymph node biopsy using advanced surgical techniques that prioritize safety, cosmetic outcomes, and overall patient well-being.

What Is a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy?

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) is a procedure in which only the first few lymph nodes that receive drainage from the breast tumour are removed and tested for cancer. If these sentinel nodes are cancer-free, the cancer is unlikely to spread to other nodes, and a complete axillary lymph node dissection can often be avoided.

SLNB is typically done at the time of mastectomy and is now the standard of care in early-stage breast cancer.

Indications for Mastectomy with SLNB

This combined procedure is commonly recommended in the following scenarios:

• Early-stage invasive breast cancer
• DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma in Situ) with a high risk of invasion
• Patients opting for mastectomy who are clinically node-negative
• Situations where tumour biology and imaging suggest minimal lymphatic spread
• Preventive mastectomies in BRCA mutation carriers, where SLNB is performed if there is any suspicious lesion

Dr. Kanmani Govindrao Telkar will conduct a detailed evaluation, including imaging and biopsy, to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for this procedure.

Surgical Process

Preoperative Planning

Before surgery, a radioactive tracer and/or a blue dye are injected near the tumour or areola. These substances help identify the sentinel lymph nodes during the operation.

Mastectomy

Dr. Telkar performs the mastectomy by removing all breast tissue, including the nipple-areolar complex (depending on the case), through a carefully planned incision. Incision patterns are selected based on cancer location, breast shape, and future reconstruction needs.

Sentinel Node Identification and Removal

Using a special probe, the surgeon identifies the lymph nodes that have absorbed the dye or tracer — these are the sentinel nodes. Typically, 1–3 lymph nodes are removed and sent for pathological examination.

Immediate Reconstruction (optional)

If opted for, an appropriate, immediate breast reconstruction is performed using implants or autologous tissue.

Advantages of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

Compared to traditional axillary lymph node dissection, SLNB offers several key benefits:

• Minimally invasive lymph node assessment
• Reduced risk of lymphedema (arm swelling)
• Less postoperative pain and shoulder stiffness
• Quicker recovery and improved quality of life
• Accurate cancer staging with fewer complications

By integrating SLNB with mastectomy, Dr. Kanmani Govindrao Telkar ensures that patients receive precise cancer management with the least possible surgical burden.

Postoperative Care and Recovery

After surgery, most patients can expect:

• 1–2 days of hospital stay
• Drain placement to manage fluid buildup (typically removed in 5–10 days)
• Pain relief with oral medications
• Wound care instructions and regular dressing changes
• Gradual resumption of shoulder exercises to prevent stiffness
• Review of pathology results in 7–10 days to guide further treatment (e.g., chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or hormonal therapy)

Dr. Telkar and her team provide comprehensive recovery guidance, regular follow-up, and support throughout the healing process.

Reconstruction After Mastectomy

As a Breast Oncoplastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr. Kanmani Govindrao Telkar offers aesthetic reconstruction options for patients undergoing mastectomy. Reconstruction may be:

• Immediate: Done during the same surgery
• Delayed: Done after cancer treatment is completed

Options include:

• Implant-based reconstruction
• Autologous tissue flaps (from the abdomen, back, or thighs)
• Nipple-sparing mastectomy with reconstruction, if oncologically safe

The choice of reconstruction is personalized to match the patient’s body type, medical status, cancer stage, and personal preferences.

Additional Surgical Services

In addition to advanced cancer surgeries like mastectomy with SLNB, Dr. Kanmani Govindrao Telkar also provides expert care for benign breast conditions through specialized procedures such as:

Fibroadenoma Excision

Removal of benign breast lumps with minimal scarring and quick recovery.

Giant Fibroadenoma Excision

Surgical removal of large, space-occupying benign tumours that affect breast shape.

Accessory Nipple Excision

Safe and aesthetic removal of supernumerary nipples along the milk line.

Accessory Breast Excision

Removal of hormonally sensitive or cosmetically bothersome extra breast tissue, often located in the underarm area.

These services reflect Dr. Telkar’s holistic approach to breast surgery, which precisely and compassionately addresses both oncological and cosmetic needs.

Why Choose Dr. Kanmani Govindrao Telkar?

• Extensive experience in oncoplastic and reconstructive breast surgery
• Expertise in sentinel node biopsy and mastectomy techniques
• Focus on minimally invasive, function-preserving surgeries
• Personalized, patient-centred care from consultation to recovery
• Integrated follow-up care and long-term monitoring

Patients who choose Dr. Kanmani Govindrao Telkar benefit not only from her surgical skills but also from her dedication to supporting patients emotionally, physically, and aesthetically through every stage of breast cancer treatment.

Book a Consultation

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer and are exploring surgical options, Mastectomy with Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy may be an ideal approach for effective treatment with minimal side effects.

Please get in touch with our clinic today to learn more about your options or to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Kanmani Govindrao Telkar. Experience advanced breast care delivered with compassion, precision, and integrity.