Breast Reconstruction After Radiation

[JJ201349!]

Hi Shirley,

Thank you! This is very helpful. Looks like reconstruction with expanders/implants can be challenging after radiation due to loss of elasticity (fibrosis). I think that I would like to discuss DIEP as an option for reconstruction. However, since it's a major surgery, the possibility of complications are higher.

Good luck and many blessings,
JJ

[kimsmo]

I had a double mastectomy in January this year, and expanders were inserted at that time. Unfortunately, the margins weren't very clear, so the docs decided I would need radiation (which we initially thought wouldn't be necessary).

After five months of chemo, I had 30 radiation treatments. I very liberally used the special radiation-specific lotion recommended by my doc, and tolerated it very well. It was much better than chemo, by far. I did have a very red "sunburn" by the end of radiation, but it faded nicely after a few weeks.

About a month after completing radiation, my implants were inserted, almost a month ago. The incisions are healing nicely and everything is looking good. The radiated side is a little firmer, and I've been advised to massage it daily to help maintain the pocket and keep scar tissue to a minimum. So far, so good!

I just have another five months of Herceptin treatments, then I'll be set loose with just Tamoxifen. Can't wait!