Mastectomy Residuals

DC 7626Gynecological/Breast38 CFR 4.116, DC 7626

Residual effects from the surgical removal of one or both breasts. The VA assigns a fixed rating based on whether the surgery involved a simple or radical mastectomy and whether one or both breasts were removed.

How the VA rates this condition

This condition has a fixed rating under VA regulations. Unlike most conditions, the rating does not vary based on severity. If the VA grants service connection, the rating percentage is set by regulation.

Diagnostic code

DC 7626

Rating range

0% – 80%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.116, DC 7626. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You had a radical or modified radical mastectomy of both breasts (bilateral).

What the VA looks for

Bilateral radical mastectomy operative reports
Bilateral lymph node dissection
Chest wall muscle involvement documented
Significant functional limitations
Bilateral lymphedema if present

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing separately for lymphedema, scars, shoulder or arm range of motion loss, and peripheral neuropathy. These are all ratable residuals on top of the mastectomy rating.
⚠Not documenting chest wall pain, phantom breast sensations, and skin sensitivity that persist after surgery. These functional impairments support additional ratings.
⚠Failing to claim psychological effects (depression, anxiety, body image issues) as secondary conditions to the mastectomy.
⚠Not distinguishing between simple and radical mastectomy in your records. Radical mastectomy (which includes muscle and lymph node removal) rates higher.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Gynecological Conditions and Disorders of the Breast

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7626

Rating range

0% – 80%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You had a radical or modified radical mastectomy of both breasts (bilateral).

What the VA looks for

Bilateral radical mastectomy operative reports
Bilateral lymph node dissection
Chest wall muscle involvement documented
Significant functional limitations
Bilateral lymphedema if present

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing separately for lymphedema, scars, shoulder or arm range of motion loss, and peripheral neuropathy. These are all ratable residuals on top of the mastectomy rating.

⚠Not documenting chest wall pain, phantom breast sensations, and skin sensitivity that persist after surgery. These functional impairments support additional ratings.

⚠Failing to claim psychological effects (depression, anxiety, body image issues) as secondary conditions to the mastectomy.

⚠Not distinguishing between simple and radical mastectomy in your records. Radical mastectomy (which includes muscle and lymph node removal) rates higher.