Definition:
total mastectomy (TOH-tul ma-STEK-toh-mee)
Surgery to remove the whole breast. Some of the lymph nodes under the arm may also be removed. Also called simple mastectomy.
Enlarge Total (simple) mastectomy; drawing shows removal of the breast and lymph nodes.

Total (simple) mastectomy. The dotted line shows where the entire breast is removed. Some lymph nodes under the arm may also be removed.