My oncologist immediately spotted shrinkage after radiotherapy (ended 15 sessions on 6/2). I think I had some shrinkage after surgery (tumour was 44mm) but think it has got worse after radiotherapy. Keen to understand what “RTOG G2 shrinkage” means. How severe is this? What kind of difference in cup sizes can I expect? What are my options? Pre-cancer I was wearing a 36g bra. Many thanks
Hi crystalbecks,
Thank you for posting and asking about the shrinkage you have experienced following your recent breast radiotherapy. Everybody reacts differently to radiotherapy and the side effects vary from person to person. Some people experience changes to the shape or size of their breast after treatment. For some people the changes are temporary and improve with time but for others they can be permanent.
RTOG G2 stands Radiation Oncology Toxicity Grade 2. Symptoms are graded 1-4 and grade 2 is classed as moderate.
It can help to talk with your treatment team about the changes you are experiencing and what this means for you. They may arrange to review you again in a few months to see how the tissue has settled and if any surgical options or symmetrising surgery to the other breast might be appropriate.
In the meantime, it may also be helpful to talk with your breast care nurse about post surgery bras and partial prostheses that can help to create symmetry. They will be able to refer you for a fitting appointment on the NHS. You may find our information on bra and prosthesis fitting, and our list of post surgery bra suppliers helpful.
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. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more 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).
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Best wishes
Katy
Breast Care Nurse
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