If one has had a WLE followed by radiotherapy and then has to have a mastectomy is it still possible to have a reconstruction? - I mean does the fact of having had rads make any difference?
thanks
Anthi
Hi Anthi
You can still have a reconstruction but it may affect your choice of which type. I think it means you can’t have the simpler, implant type of reconstruction because the skin cannot stretch. In fact it means you can have an immediate reconstruction. May women are advised to have delayed reconstruction if they need radiotherapy after mastectomy.
Regards
Kelley
Hi Anthi - I had WLE and radio 4 years ago and then had to have mastectomy in Sep and had immediate recon with implant and back muscle moved around to hold it in place - called ld flap. So far so good the recon looks good and no problems due to old radiotherapy as back muscle was not damaged by radio.The advantage is as Kelley said I had it straight away and the skin was saved.
Hope this helps
Sarah x x x
Hi Anthi
I am posting a link to a BCC publication about breast reconstruction which you may find helpful to read, you can read it via the following link:
breastcancercare.org.uk/docs/breast_reconstruction_dec06_web_0.pdf
You are also welcome to call our confidential helpline for further support and information on 0808 800 6000, it’s open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and Sat 9am-2pm.
Best wishes
Lucy
Hi
I had wle in Dec back for mast 21 Jan I cant have reconstruction straight away because of chemo and rads - so if you have already had rads this should give you more possibilities - I think?
Love
Karen
Hi Anthi
I had lumpectomy, WLE and 15 sessions of radiotherapy 4 years ago for dcis. It came back and I had a mastectomy and immediate diep recon in September 2007. I was told that there is more possibility of having an implant go hard and need replacing if you have had rads. From what I have read and been told you have a skin saving mastectomy if you have an immediate recon.
Love
Cassie
Many thanks everyone for your very helpful replies.
Best wishes
Anthi x