Aim To evaluate the experience of women who underwent mastectomy without reconstruction as treatment for breast cancer and were discharged from hospital either the same day or the next morning.

Method The research design was qualitative, adopting a phenomenological approach. Nine women were interviewed between four and eight weeks after surgery. The format was unstructured, which encouraged participants to discuss their views openly.

Findings The desire to return to normal life and activities as soon as possible was common to all accounts. For most the experience was empowering, enabling them to take control of their own recovery. Postoperative complications were well managed and all participants were reassured by having the nurse specialist’s contact number.

Conclusion The study provides evidence to support the view that 23-hour discharge is feasible from a medical perspective and also acceptable to patients.