Breast recon options for slim woman after radiation?

September 19, 2016
Asked By:elise24642 in Atlantic City, NJ

I'm 28, BRCA, w/ stage 3 breast cancer. I need a double mastectomy AND radiation. I'm too thin for tissue flap, and tennis player rules out lat dorsi. 2 surgeons told me implant recon plus radiation will cause complications. I don't mind if the symmetry isn't perfect, but worry about ultimately losing the implant on the radiated side, or having skin break down or heal poorly. How common is this? Are there any surgeons who can confidently perform implant recon on a patient who needs radiation?

Recommended reading

Breast Reconstruction

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction

  • 95% worth it
  • 1.3k reviews
  • Avg cost: $17,639
Learn More
ADVERTISEMENT