Mayo Clinic Launches FDA-approved Robotic Mastectomy

New minimally invasive approach aims to improve cosmetic outcomes and sensory restoration for breast cancer patients.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 12:55am

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Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center is expanding surgical options for breast cancer patients by offering a new robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy procedure that has recently received FDA approval. The minimally invasive approach is designed to preserve the skin and nipple, create a more natural-looking reconstructed breast, and in some cases, help patients regain sensation in the breast.

Why it matters

Nipple-sparing mastectomy can offer meaningful psychological benefits for patients compared to traditional mastectomy, but many still experience visible scarring and loss of sensation. The robotic approach aims to address these challenges and provide a better overall experience for breast cancer patients undergoing mastectomy and reconstruction.

The details

The robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy enables a small lateral incision, gentle tissue retraction, and enhanced visualization to help preserve the skin and nipple. Mayo Clinic surgeons are also integrating sensory restoring procedures, including nipple-areolar complex reinnervation, to help patients regain protective sensation in their reconstructed breasts.

  • Mayo Clinic recently received FDA approval for the use of the robotic platform and device for nipple-sparing mastectomy procedures.

The players

Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center

A leading cancer care and research institution that is expanding surgical options for breast cancer patients.

Mara Piltin, D.O.

A surgical oncologist at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida who specializes in nipple-sparing mastectomy procedures.

Jeffrey E. Johnson, M.D.

A surgical oncologist at Mayo Clinic in Rochester who is helping to advance innovations in nipple-sparing mastectomy and breast reconstruction.

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What they’re saying

“When we remove the breast tissue and keep the envelope of the breast skin and nipple, it provides the most natural-appearing breast from a cosmetic standpoint. The next step is to improve the process so that patients regain feeling in their breasts and are not constantly seeing scars that remind them of their cancer journey. It will positively impact their sexual health, self-image and recovery.”

— Mara Piltin, D.O., Surgical Oncologist, Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida

“At Mayo Clinic, our goal is to ensure that more patients can benefit from innovations that support not only their physical recovery but also their emotional well-being so every patient can move forward with confidence and hope.”

— Jeffrey E. Johnson, M.D., Surgical Oncologist, Mayo Clinic in Rochester

What’s next

Mayo Clinic plans to continue refining the surgical techniques and expanding clinical trials to further enhance patient outcomes with the robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy approach.

The takeaway

The new robotic mastectomy procedure at Mayo Clinic represents an important advancement in breast cancer treatment, providing patients with a minimally invasive option that can improve cosmetic results and potentially restore sensation, positively impacting their physical and emotional recovery.