What type of mastectomy leaves the skin and nipple intact?

The correct answer is subcutaneous mastectomy, also known as skin-sparing mastectomy. This surgical procedure involves the removal of breast tissue while preserving the skin and, in many cases, the nipple-areola complex. This technique is particularly beneficial for patients who may undergo immediate breast reconstruction, as it maintains the natural shape and contour of the breast, leading to better aesthetic outcomes post-surgery.

In contrast, total mastectomy entails the removal of the entire breast, including skin and nipple, which does not maintain any of the original breast structures. Radical mastectomy is an even more extensive procedure that involves removing the breast, underlying chest muscle, and adjacent lymph nodes. Segmental mastectomy, also known as partial mastectomy, removes only a portion of the breast tissue along with some surrounding tissue but does not necessarily keep the skin or nipple intact. Subcutaneous mastectomy is thus uniquely positioned for preserving skin and nipple for reconstruction purposes.