[jaykay]

My left breast was radiated 12.5 years ago (lumpectomy, node negative via snb). Recurred in right breast about 2.5 months ago. Had bilateral mastectomy with snb, nipple sparing, tissue expanders in both.

The skin on the radiated breast has definitely taken longer to "heal", especially around the nipple. Plastic surgeon was not surprised and is not worried about final implant surgery (down the road, after chemo). She only warned me that the nipple may not make it, everything else would be okay.

I'm not sure what you mean about "what the back looks like".

I did not have aux dissection but was back to exercising upper body in 6 weeks. Expanders are not comfortable (an understatement!) but that was my only option. I don't know anything about lat dorsi.

Hope this helps

Janis