Radiation Shrinkage after Lumpectomy
While I am grateful to have only needed a lumpectomy, one breast is now half the size of the other breast as a result of radiation. As a woman, I am very conscientious of this, and wish I had reconstruction options under insurance now two years post surgery. While I have found a bra in which I can add extra padding, I would prefer to be "naturally" evenly sized again.
Comments
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Hi @suzannmb63 ,
We hear you. Even when we’re grateful for successful treatment, the body changes afterward can be really hard — especially when they’re visible and affect how we feel in our own skin. It’s completely understandable to want to feel more balanced and “like yourself” again.
You may want to explore a few options, depending on what feels right for you:
- Meet with a plastic surgeon (even two years out) to talk through what might still be possible. Some members are surprised to learn there can still be reconstructive or balancing procedures available later on.
- Symmetry procedures on the non-surgical breast, which some women choose to help even things out.
- External options, like custom prosthetics or specialty fittings, if surgery isn’t something you want.
Check with your insurance provider directly, as coverage rules vary and sometimes exceptions are made.
You deserve to at least have the conversation and understand your choices. We hope others who’ve dealt with radiation shrinkage will share what they decided and how it worked out for them. 💛
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