I'll be having a lumpectomy and I have concerns about the silicone implants I already have. My surgeon said that I will need radiation every 5 days for 5 to 6 weeks. How will it affect my implants? I have had the implants for almost 2 years now.
March 31, 2009
Answer: Can't say for sure, but you should know this Radiation protocols have changed over the years, and are safer today than ever. However, radiation is not good for healthy tissues. The most likely risk to your implants is not the implants, but the scar tissue around the implants. Radiation will increase your risk of capsular contracture. I don't know specific percentages, but there is a fair chance that you may see this in your future.
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March 31, 2009
Answer: Can't say for sure, but you should know this Radiation protocols have changed over the years, and are safer today than ever. However, radiation is not good for healthy tissues. The most likely risk to your implants is not the implants, but the scar tissue around the implants. Radiation will increase your risk of capsular contracture. I don't know specific percentages, but there is a fair chance that you may see this in your future.
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March 31, 2009
Answer: Contracture is a big risk The radiation doesn't affect the implant per se, but it does affect the capsule, remaining breast tissue and the skin. I perform a lot of breast reconstruction as well as cosmetic augmentation and depending on your age, you may want to consider completion mastectomy with immediate implant reconstruction to avoid the radiation. At least know that it is an option. With radiation, the affects are often not immediately noticed. I have had dozens of women get through the 6 weeks of radiation with nothing more than a dark tan, only to develop a tight contracture 5 months later. The use of radiation now may also limit your reconstructive options in the future should there be a need for (I certainly hope not) a mastectomy in the future. Unfortunately, the radiation oncologist may not be the most informed person to speak with either because they are often unaware of the long-term impact of the radiation on the aesthetic appearance of the breast. I would encourage you to either see your original plastic surgeon or another in your area who does a fair amount of breast reconstruction to review your options. Time is of the essence and I certainly wouldn't want you to delay your cancer treatment, but you do have options. Good luck!
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March 31, 2009
Answer: Contracture is a big risk The radiation doesn't affect the implant per se, but it does affect the capsule, remaining breast tissue and the skin. I perform a lot of breast reconstruction as well as cosmetic augmentation and depending on your age, you may want to consider completion mastectomy with immediate implant reconstruction to avoid the radiation. At least know that it is an option. With radiation, the affects are often not immediately noticed. I have had dozens of women get through the 6 weeks of radiation with nothing more than a dark tan, only to develop a tight contracture 5 months later. The use of radiation now may also limit your reconstructive options in the future should there be a need for (I certainly hope not) a mastectomy in the future. Unfortunately, the radiation oncologist may not be the most informed person to speak with either because they are often unaware of the long-term impact of the radiation on the aesthetic appearance of the breast. I would encourage you to either see your original plastic surgeon or another in your area who does a fair amount of breast reconstruction to review your options. Time is of the essence and I certainly wouldn't want you to delay your cancer treatment, but you do have options. Good luck!
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