Breast shrinkage after lumpectomy and radiotherapy

Hello, I was diagnosed last year with a tiny (6mm) IDC which was successfully removed along with 2 lymph nodes in September. My margins and lymph nodes were clear and I just needed 5 days of partial breast radiotherapy which I had just before Christmas.
My biggest concern now - well actually it’s a problem that’s getting smaller - is how my breast has shrunk. I now have a full 2 cup sizes difference in my breasts and although I have an appointment booked for a partial prosthetic fitting, the only longer term solution that has been suggested is a breast reduction of my other breast.
This has left me feeling quite ‘deflated’ - I am in my early 70’s and am grateful that I didn’t need more drastic surgery or chemo, but I am finding it quite difficult coming to terms with my shrinkage.
I would appreciate hearing from anyone with similar concerns

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Hi cathy54
I spoke with my bc nurse as I too was devastated by the difference in my breast following treatment. I saw them in clinic and was fitted for a prosthesis ‘boob’ which I insert into my bra when I go out and what a difference it has made to my confidence. When we were trying out the options my bc nurse straight away said I stood taller and held myself much better.
Obviously I don’t know if it’s something you might want to consider but for me it has been a total game changer!! I love it ha ha.
I wish you well in getting to a point where you feel more comfortable and confident xx

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Ahh, thanks tt59, that’s really encouraging - when they rang to make the appointment for the prosthesis fitting they said I had to wear a well fitting bra - I don’t have a well fitting bra - that’s the whole point, I can’t buy a bra because my boobs are such different sizes! Anyway, hopefully the BC fitter will be able to sort me out. X

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Hi Cathy
I just wore the bras I bought following surgery (albeit one noob smaller as you say). I tried several sizes until I got the one I felt was a good fit and now I push it up inside my bra which has holes for the exact same thing. It also means it’s not on my skin so not sweaty or anything thankfully.
Hope all goes well for you :crossed_fingers::crossed_fingers: Anita x

Thanks Anita! x

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Hi, I’m having a lumpectomy soon and radiotherapy after (tripple negative BC) and I’m meeting the surgeon tomorrow. One of my questions is what do they do with the difference in breast size and it’s great to know there are prosthesis, I didn’t know about it!

In my case the impacted breast is already smaller and I’m afraid it will become a problem after the surgery. They said reducing another breast size is not an option for some reason…

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All my very best for your surgery, hope all goes well for you. x

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Hi
My cooked right boob is pert, has a reluctant seroma , is upright and permanently tanned, that nipple is brown
My left boob looks down at the floor and feels soft and has a pink nipple

Its hard to judge but I’d say I’ve gone from a FF on the right to a DD yes it looks out of proportion to the left but who sees it apart from me and hubbie and hospital staff for annual mammograms??

I wear non wired bras and tops with built in support, sometimes 2 to give balance and the odd wired bra if i need a confidence boost in a strappy top or dress ( Bravissimo, Pour Moi, Asda etc)

I wear bikinis on holiday and have never encountered anyone staring at them

I’ve put on weight since taking Anastrozole but eat healthy and exercise daily so I’ll tackle weight loss at some point but for now just incredibly grateful for being here fit and well

We all come in all shapes and sizes even if we haven’t had surgery or other treatments so please find a bra brand that works for you, find a prosthesis if you need it, or a bamboo flannel to fill the gap

Your BCN can help, a local Maggie centre too or ask for help at a M&S or Bravissimo shop if you have one near you, if not order on line try and send back if it doesn’t fit

Good luck

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