What tests will I undergo before a mastectomy?

In order to determine if a mastectomy is advisable, you will undergo several imaging tests in the breast, including mammogram, and possibly ultrasound as well as MRI. Your doctor will use these results to determine if lumpectomy is an option for you or if mastectomy is more appropriate. Once you have decided on a surgical treatment plan, you will have to undergo preoperative testing including blood tests, chest X-ray, and EKG to make sure that you are in stable condition to receive anesthesia.  Depending on your pathology, if you are at risk for distant disease, a bone scan, PET scan, and/or CT scans may be recommended to check for metastases.