Question on Rads - local or all over?

[Erin]

Well, I have just finished my 3rd round of TCH and as usual I am getting way ahead of myself :-) I am thinking of the radiation and what might be best. I understand that sometimes the whole breast is irradiated and sometimes it is targeted to the area of the tumor. Does anyone have any info?

I had a very deep tumor with a positive margin on the side that was against the chest wall, due to no more breast tissue being behind it. I have several concerns: will targeted radiation be better for the positive margin? And, what about the after effects of the radiation on the breast?

Not to be too blunt about it, but my husband and I are very fond of my breasts (lol). Even with my very small breasts, (one of which is significantly smaller now and with a big scar), we still like them :-) I really dread the idea of a big decrease in sensation or the hardening of the skin that I hear about. I know, I know.....I do care more about getting rid of this horrible thing than anything else, but still, if I have options, I would rather not surrender anymore of myself (or my sexuality) to it. Sorry if this sounds shallow, but our love life is very important to us. My husband will love me no matter what, I know that. But, I would miss it. Ladies, any ideas? Stats?

Thanks again for being here!