[header] How to know when to call the doctor after mastectomy surgery [title] Identify which surgical procedure you'll have. [step] The physical outcome of the surgery will depend upon how much tissue your surgeon removes. In some cases, muscle is also removed to prevent or remove cancerous tissue. 
This will have an impact on the amount of pain you experience and the potential risks for post-surgical outcomes. You should discuss the various mastectomy procedures available with your surgeon before the operation.