I have recently had a bilateral mastecomy due to breast cancer in my left breast. I am currently undergoing chemotherapy and will be having radiation therapy. There is much conflicting information about whether breast reconstruction with implants is recommended or even feasible after radiation therapy. I have had multiple surgeries previously, and I am concerned about having multiple surgical sites (such as those from TRAM or DIEP procedures). What are the risks of utilizing breast implants after radiation, and how long should one wait to have the implants to minimize risk (if possible to do so)?
April 21, 2016
Answer: Radiation therapy and implant reconstruction. There is no doubt that there are increased risks of complications with implants following radiation therapy. This does not mean that it should not be done but that you should be aware of this. Clearly you have an understanding as is indicated by your mention of the autologous tissue flaps which are generally preferred with a history of radiation. There are conflicting reports about the timing, some studies suggest within 6 weeks while others advise waiting 3-4 months. In any situation, you should wait until infalmmatory changes to the skinhave subsided.
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April 21, 2016
Answer: Radiation therapy and implant reconstruction. There is no doubt that there are increased risks of complications with implants following radiation therapy. This does not mean that it should not be done but that you should be aware of this. Clearly you have an understanding as is indicated by your mention of the autologous tissue flaps which are generally preferred with a history of radiation. There are conflicting reports about the timing, some studies suggest within 6 weeks while others advise waiting 3-4 months. In any situation, you should wait until infalmmatory changes to the skinhave subsided.
Helpful
Answer: Increase Complications These patients have a very high complication rate. The most important reason why this happens is because the radiation has already caused permanent damage to the tissues by restricting blood flow. Attempting to reconstruct these tissues when they have already been damaged is less predictable for wound healing and infection. Even if patients get through the initial healing from surgery, most patients will develop capsular contracture around an implant within 5 years. Dr. Albright is rightfully cautious and highly selective when offering (or not offering) implant-based breast reconstruction to patients who had previous breast radiation.
Helpful
Answer: Increase Complications These patients have a very high complication rate. The most important reason why this happens is because the radiation has already caused permanent damage to the tissues by restricting blood flow. Attempting to reconstruct these tissues when they have already been damaged is less predictable for wound healing and infection. Even if patients get through the initial healing from surgery, most patients will develop capsular contracture around an implant within 5 years. Dr. Albright is rightfully cautious and highly selective when offering (or not offering) implant-based breast reconstruction to patients who had previous breast radiation.
Helpful
