Breast Cancer Treatment: Confusion About Implants and Radiation
Community Member
2 years agoHello. Im 2 months into my breast cancer diagnosis. I am at a stage 1a. Estrogen positive. BRCA negative. They did a MRI of my breasts with contrast and did not see anything in my lymph nodes. They are recommending a lumpectomy with radiation. I have seen the breast surgeon, the radiologist, the reconstructive surgeon. I'm confused at this point. The reconstructive surgeon told me that radiation and implants do not work together ( I have implants in now). He recommended me having the implants out and do a lift at the same time the breast surgeon takes out the cancer tumor. My understanding from this reconstructive surgery visit is that it needed to be done all at the same time. Couldn't I have a breast lift at a later time and just have the implants removed (or keep them in)? I know capsular contraction can happen because of the radiation. So I dunno. Anyone been through something similar?
Accepted Answer
This sounds like a really overwhelming situation with a lot of different medical opinions to process all at once. Many patients find themselves in similar positions where timing decisions feel confusing, especially when multiple specialists are involved. It's completely understandable to want clarity about whether procedures need to happen together or if some can be done later. Have others in this community navigated similar decisions about implants and radiation timing? Your questions about options and timing are really important ones to discuss thoroughly with your medical team.
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Community Member
6 months agoI loved all my Doctors.
Community Member
6 months agoI got mastectomy and reconstruction same time. Radiation oncologist and breast surgeon said radiation is ok with an implant. Plastic and oncologist said no. 2:2. My radiation oncologist prescribed an allergy type pill to take during radiation to decrease chance of capsular issue. Unfortunately through my experiences, I have learned to do my own research and educate myself to make a decision - the Dr’s often contradict each other
Community Member
2 months agoThis sounds like a really overwhelming situation with a lot of different medical opinions to process all at once. Many patients find themselves in similar positions where timing decisions feel confusing, especially when multiple specialists are involved. It's completely understandable to want clarity about whether procedures need to happen together or if some can be done later. Have others in this community navigated similar decisions about implants and radiation timing? Your questions about options and timing are really important ones to discuss thoroughly with your medical team.
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