I had Breast Cancer, Stage 1 Invasive with ER and PR positive about 18 months ago. I had a Lumpectomy, Radiation, and was put on Ethemestane. I asked about a Breast reduction at the same time as a Lumpectomy, but my surgeon said no. I had Radiation for 5 days and got a terrible burn. The Radiation Oncologist said my radiated breast might shrink, but instead it is bigger and more swollen, 16 months after. She said the swelling won’t go down. It is difficult to find bras and I keep getting rashes.
I consulted a Plastic Surgeon yesterday. he said he would do a reduction, but my risk for infection is higher, and more complications for wound healing. I want the surgery, but am now afraid. Did anyone else have a Reduction after Radiation? What were the results? Thanks so much
Hello jeannej,
I cannot answer your question regarding surgery for breast reduction on your lumpectomy boob.
But what i can say is i too, have a swollen boob, its called odema, its where i believe if memory serves me correctly, lymphatic fluid has built up in the breast due to surgery and node removal, the lymphatic system in the breast is damaged. Radiotherapy didnt help either. I still have a swollen boob, but not as big or as painful, 4 years since surgery for me ( its quite a common occurrence apparently) .
With regards to bras, i buy my original size but in a full cup style with very little padding, the ones with lace to the top which have a more fitted feel for the smaller none surgery breast but accommodates the swollen quite well.
I wish you well on what ever you decide, but first please have another chat with your breast team before you make any final decisions.
Gentle hugs to you.
Hi Purplerose,
Thanks for your reply. I was told that I don’t have Lymphedema. I opted to skip the Sentinel Node Biopsy. I am 70 and am in a clinical trial. My surgeon is researching women age 65-70 skipping the Sentinel Node Biopsy if they are stage 1. I didn’t know that permanent swelling was common, so thanks for the info. If anything, I was expecting it to shrink, since they all told me that might happen. It is a big decision. Thanks for your feedback.