I finished radiotherapy in October 24 - my left breast is twice (or more) the size of my right one and still feels heavy and quite solid. I expected the changes in my nipple and the discoloration but is it always going to be this size? Is this normal - it’s very hard to find a bra which works and I’ve resorted to the soft night-time bras which stretch. It does get warm sometimes and is still quite red when that happens but it isn’t constant. Is there anything I can do to help the poor thing recover?
Hello piewacket
Thank you for posting.
It is understandable you want to find things you can do to help your recovery from breast cancer treatment including radiotherapy.
Everyone responds differently, and the side effects people experience can vary. The discolouration you describe is normal, and this often fades with time. It is not unusual for a breast to remain swollen and feel firmer for some weeks after radiotherapy. But, as this has continued for you for a while, we would suggest you talk to your breast care team or nurse if you have one so they can assess you.
Finding a comfortable bra after breast surgery is important as your shape and size continues to change. This information on choosing a bra may be helpful and you may also want to look at these videos on bra’s after breast surgery. There are many suppliers who sell post-surgery bras, and it is worth having look at what might be most suitable for you.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
For more details about all of these services, please see the information on the link, or call our free helpline.
If you would like to talk this through, or have any further questions, do call our helpline. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).
If you would prefer one of our nurses to call you. Please complete this form ticking the box agreeing to a call back.
Our usual opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm and 9am -1pm on Saturday.
Out of hours you can leave a message and we will call you back when we next open.
Best wishes
Angela
Breast Care Nurse
Please read the disclaimer Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy
As we are unable to monitor for further replies, this thread will now be closed. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread, call our helpline, email us or request a call back.