【Abstract】ObjectiveTo review the status and controversy on skinsparing mastectomy (SSM) for breast cancer. MethodsThe pertinent literatures about SSM published recently to comprehend its relevant techniques and improvements in comparison with nonskinsparing mastectomy (NSSM) were analyzed and also the safety of SSM by analyzing the relationships between SSM and ductal carcinoma in situ, restrict nippleareola complex reservation, and postmastectomy radiotherapy were discussed. ResultsSkinsparing mastectomy combined with immediate breast reconstruction is a safe operative modality for T1/T2 tumor without skin adhesion, multicentric tumors, and ductal carcinoma in situ. What is more, it does not defer adjuvant therapy. However, it may be prudent to reserve the nippleareola complex only for peripherally located T1/T2 tumors and some other less serious invasion degree. Since the effect of SSM and immediate breast reconstruction on postmastectomy radiotherapy is confusing, there are still controversies on whether the patients who have already been operated should take radiotherapy. ConclusionSSM is a safe operative modality for selected patients with breast cancer, and delayed reconstruction may be a good choice for patients who would take postmastectomy radiotherapy.