Precise Staging, Safer Outcomes
Axillary Dissection at Athenaa

What is
Axillary Dissection

Axillary dissection is a surgical procedure to remove lymph nodes from the underarm (axilla) on the same side afflicted by breast cancer. It is performed to determine the extent of cancer spread and to prevent further progression. While less commonly required today due to the rise of sentinel node biopsy (where only the first group of lymph nodes to which cancer cells would spread are removed), axillary dissection remains essential in cases where cancer has clearly spread to multiple lymph nodes.

At Apollo Athenaa, axillary dissection is performed as part of a carefully individualized treatment plan, often in conjunction with mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery. Our goal is to ensure accurate staging and disease control while minimizing complications like lymphedema or shoulder stiffness through advanced techniques and integrated rehabilitation.

How the Procedure
is Performed

At Apollo Athenaa, every surgical step is carefully planned and performed by experienced breast surgeons with a focus on safety, precision, and recovery.

The procedure is done under general anesthesia.
A small incision or surgical cut is made in the natural crease of the underarm.
Level I and II axillary lymph nodes (typically 10–20 nodes) are carefully removed.
Bleeding is controlled, and a surgical drain is placed to prevent fluid accumulation.
The cut is closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied.
The procedure is often performed alongside a mastectomy or lumpectomy and takes about 60–90 minutes.

Recovery

Healing at Apollo Athenaa is supported through structured post-operative care,
counselling, and rehabilitation support.

Hospital Stay

The patient is typically discharged in 1–2 days. A drain remains in place for 5–10 days and is monitored for output.

Pain Management

Mild to moderate pain, tightness, or swelling in the arm or underarm is common and managed with medications and guided movement.

Lymphedema Management

The team will also coordinate efforts with the physiotherapy and rehabilitation teams to reduce the risk of lymphedema post-surgery.

Resuming Routine

Most women resume light activities in 1–2 weeks and return to routine work in 3–4 weeks.

Key
Advantages

At Apollo Athenaa, surgery is thoughtfully planned with a personalized approach, ensuring safety, precision, and optimal outcomes.

Precise Staging

Accurate cancer staging, helping tailor further treatment decisions.

Regional Control

Effective regional disease control, especially when multiple nodes are involved. In those women with heavy axillary burden and high BMI, prophylactic lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) is also offered.

Reduced Complications

Integrated with physiotherapy and lymphedema prevention, reducing complication rates.

Single-Stage Surgery

Done in a single sitting with primary breast surgery for convenience and safety.

Continuum of Care

At Apollo Athenaa, our teams remain involved at every stage, ensuring that recovery is not only physical, but also emotional and empowering. Post-surgery, each woman is supported through.

Detailed pathology review, which guides radiation and systemic therapy planning

Early physiotherapy and arm mobility exercises, to prevent shoulder dysfunction and stiffness

Lymphedema surveillance and management, including education, garments, and early intervention

Regular follow-up to monitor wound healing, manage any complications, and support return to normal activities

Frequently Asked Questions

What is axillary dissection?

01

Axillary dissection is a surgical procedure to remove lymph nodes from the armpit (axilla) to determine whether breast cancer has spread and to control disease in that area.

Why is axillary dissection recommended?

02

It is advised when cancer has spread to multiple lymph nodes or when sentinel lymph node biopsy shows significant involvement. The information helps guide further treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation.

How is axillary dissection performed?

03

The procedure is usually done at the same time as breast surgery, through a small incision in the underarm. Surgeons use nerve-preserving techniques to reduce long-term side effects.

What are the risks or side effects?

04

Possible risks include arm swelling (lymphedema), numbness, stiffness, or shoulder discomfort. At Athenaa, preventive measures such as physiotherapy and lymphedema-prevention protocols are used to reduce these risks.

What is recovery like after axillary dissection?

05

Most patients can resume light activities within 1–2 weeks. Physiotherapy exercises are started early to maintain arm movement and prevent stiffness or swelling.

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Precise Staging, Safer Outcomes Axillary Dissection at Athenaa

Precise Staging, Safer Outcomes
Axillary Dissection at Athenaa