An autologous tissue reconstruction is a good option if you are thinking of getting a breast implants after radiation. This procedure involves the transfer of excess abdominal wall tissue onto your chest, and using the specialized techniques for microsurgery. This surgeon is fellowship-trained in this field and double-board certified.
Incidences of complication
Radiation treatment complications can have a significant impact on the outcome of breast implants surgery. Many procedures may be necessary before patients are satisfied. In severe cases, breast implants may be removed. Hematoma, a buildup of blood near the site of surgery, can also be a problem. This can lead to swelling and bruising as well as pain. If the patient has ever had an infection or seroma before, this is more likely to happen. To remove the complication, a doctor might need to perform a second operation.
Another risk associated with radiation treatment is implant contracture, or asymmetry. This is a common problem that can be caused by muscle. Revision surgery may be required to correct this condition. Before the surgery, the surgeon will measure the contracted superior contour and the desired superior contour. This is usually two to four centimeters lower than the contracted pole contour. The final breast shape should align with the non-irradiated, contralateral breast.
Impact on quality-of-life
Breast cancer research is still focusing on the impact of radiation and breast implant placements on quality of life. There is increasing evidence that combining the two procedures improves patients' quality of life, as well as their satisfaction with the cosmetic result. It is still a matter of debate which method is best. Research can help to establish consensus regarding the optimal approaches for patients.
Modern surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy can lower the risk of breast tumor recurrence. With modern treatment, the rate of recurrence is between 5% and 7% after ten year, and between 6% and 7% after twenty years. Radiation therapy can increase the chance of complications for breast cancer survivors.
Complications
Breast implants and radiation therapy can pose risks to women who have had them. These include a reduction in breast elasticity and firmness. Radiation can also damage the microvascular circulation, reducing bloodflow. These side effects persist for life. Radiation treatment can also cause inflammation and damage to the lungs. This can cause shortness or dry cough.
Researchers analyzed the complication rate at two years for patients who had breast reconstruction using radiation and breast implants. Researchers found that 39% of patients who received radiation and implants irradiated had at least one complication. This rate is much higher than that of patients who received implants only and had to have autologous reconstruction. The overall complication rate was comparable.
Options for treatment
Autologous tissue transfer or breast reconstruction are two options for treating radiation-induced breast cancer. The latter approach involves transferring excess skin and fat from the abdomen or back to the chest. This improves the quality chest wall tissues and utilizes the patient's own blood supply. Although the procedure may take longer, it can have fewer complications.
There are several risks associated with breast implantation surgery and radiation therapy. Your comfort and overall health will depend on the choice of treatment. Radiation can also result in scarring and hardening breast implants. This can make the breasts look less beautiful. It can also cause chronic pain. It is common to recommend breast reconstruction after radiation therapy.