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Bra discomfort after breast cancer treatment: Tips?

Breast Cancer | Last Active: Jan 15 8:47am | Replies (19)

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@triciaot

Could I ask you about the results of your reduction? I had a right lumpectomy, then both breasts were reduced from DD to about a C- on the left and D- on the right. I think the plastic surgeon expected the radiation to shrink my right breast some - but it ended up swelling. He does not think it’s fluid retention, the MRI does not show any pockets. I’m 15 months post radiation. I’ll see the cancer center plastic surgeon in April.
The reduction of both breasts were done because of the law that says they must provide an option to make the breasts symmetrical, if the patient requests it.
Now, I’m curious whether the cancer center has the obligation to make the right a little smaller? Because the nipple is a little higher on the right, I think it might be possible to just remove a small amount along the surgical line under the breast. That could also take out the 2 inches of scar that continues to get irritated with any, even the lightest, bra. I don’t want surgery on the left to make it larger - I really wanted just a B or C after dealing with large breasts all my life.
Any thoughts on just keeping the breast size as is?
Or, do I just go and get a bra insert for the left side and move on?

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Replies to "Could I ask you about the results of your reduction? I had a right lumpectomy, then..."

I’m 60. April 2023 had lumpectomy on left breast and reconstruction on both. Took 3 lymph node on left no cancer. My plastic surgeon left my left breast a bit larger(I couldn’t tell) due to radiation causing some shrinkage. Had another surgery on left ( margins weren’t large enough)had 15 days radiation. Went on AI ( with horrible side effects- now on one that’s working with very little side effects)Took over 30 days to heal from radiation , ended up with lymphedema (caught early )and an infection. After about a month of therapy, lymphedema under control, I continue to stretch and exercise.

Plastic surgeon did offer fat graphing if I wanted or needed. To make them look the same .Mine look the same or pretty close size. Currently I’m finally feeling well. And not doing anything else.
Bras— I had one fitted. Prairie Wear. Very comfortable for me. Insurance covers these or part.