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Had Radiation After Bilateral DIEP, Can I Get Nipples? What About Fix Symmetry?

asked 5 months ago by NED4574
Latest answer by C. Bob Basu, MD
Question viewed 146 times
Tags: nipples, DIEP, radiation

I had a bilateral mastectomy and excellent DIEP reconstruction at the same time. Unfortunately, it was discovered due to the later pathology report that I would need 6 weeks of radiation with boosts to breast, chest wall and supraclavical area. Can I still get nipple reconstruction? And can doctors do anything about the shrinkage of the left breast? How long should I wait?

3 answers to Had Radiation After Bilateral DIEP, Can I Get Nipples? What About Fix Symmetry?

+1

Nipple Reconstruction after Radiation

You certainly can have nipple reconstructions following radiation therapy to your DIEP flaps. The radiation does increase the possibility of delayed healing problems but these issues are often easily managed with local wound care. Timing can be quite subjective. In my practice I usually wait at least six weeks after radiation is completed before performing additional surgery on the reconstructed breasts. Sometimes I will wait a bit longer if the flap skin/mastectomy... more
Max Lehfeldt, MD, FACS

Pasadena Plastic Surgeon

www.DrMaxPlasticSurgery.com

+1

Radiation after Reconstruction

Yes, you can still get nipple reconstruction. To address the "shrinkage" you describe after radiation, your plastic surgeon can revise your DIEP flap reconstructed breasts to improve their shape and symmetry. However, most surgeons like to wait at least six months after completing radiation to procedure with any revision. At least six months is required to let the radiation effects "cool off". Best of luck. Dr. Basu
C. Bob Basu, MD

Houston Plastic Surgeon

www.basuplasticsurgery.com

+1

Radiation after breast reconstruction can disappoint

Yes, you can get nipple reconstruction. You will likely have a more difficult time healing from nipple reconstruction but it still can be done. It is a good idea to wait 6-12 months after radiation before preceeding with any further reconstrucitve surgeries. Regarding the radiation, it is unfortunate. I'm sorry to tell you the radiation damage that has been done to your DIEP flaps cannot be reversed. Also, later placement of implants under them can be very problematic and... more
J. Jason Wendel, MD

Nashville Plastic Surgeon

www.mc.vanderbilt.edu

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