Surgery after Radiotherapy

[Titch22]

Not sure if this is the best place to post this, but here goes...Following BC (lumpectomy) & radiotherapy in 2018. My breast has become very swollen, heavy & very uncomfortable, which gets worse as the day goes on. I’ve gone up 2 bras sizes now contemplating going up another 2 sizes. I’m currently undergoing physio for lymphedema although my surgeon doesn’t think I have it but it might help 🤷‍♂️ the last resort is surgery for breast reduction. My question...has anyone had breast surgery following radiotherapy? My surgeon is trying to put me off due to possible complications, but I know I cannot continue like this as it’s affecting my life....sleep & exercise amongst other things. Can anyone share experiences either good or bad as it may help me decide on what to do.

[dulcigirl]

Hi, I had a lumpectomy & radiation in late 2017. I have had problems ever since. I had a large seroma (lumpectomy cavity filled with fluid) which has been very painful. This caused a feeling of being swollen. Summer of 2019 I was diagnosed with lymphedema in my arm, armpit area & side of breast. I was sent to a physical therapist that deals with lymphedema and was taught how to manually drain areas & was shown how to use a pneumatic pump. A large sleeve is attached to the pump & my arm goes into the sleeve & it also wraps around the affected side of my chest. My insurance paid for me to have a pump at home. So I use the pump in the morning, put on a compression sleeve,d & I use the pump again in the evening. It it pushes the fluid out & helps keep it under control. It could be that the swelling you have is from the lymphedema. The earlier it's caught, the better. Treatment can start even before it's obvious. Your PT should be able to tell you more about it. They can feel blockage in your armpit. Don't consider any surgery until you have proper diagnosis & try treatment. It's a real pain in the butt, but it's what I have to do if I don't want it to get worse. I hope this helps you some.