Radiotherapy - is the size increase permanent please?

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I had radiotherapy on my left breast in October 24 - five sessions.  My left breast is still considerably larger than my right and bra's are a bit of a problem.  I wondered how long it can take before the swelling goes down.  It does get pink and hot at night but it's fairly normal otherwise - just hard to support.

  • Thank you for getting in touch with us. My name is Lynsay, and I am one of the information nurses with Macmillan Cancer Support.  

    Welcome to the online community. I hope you find this to be a helpful and supportive environment. 

    I’m sorry to hear you are still experiencing swelling following your radiotherapy. I can appreciate this must be challenging in terms of providing support. 

    Radiotherapy can cause swelling to the breast, but generally this tends to resolve within a few weeks following treatment. 

    As you are still experiencing swelling, and your breast is pink and hot at night, we would encourage you to contact your breast care nurse so this can be reviewed for you.  

    You are also more than welcome to call us on the support line if you would like to chat this through with us. 

    I hope this helps. Please feel free to get back in touch if you need more information or support. 

    All the best 

    Lynsay 

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist  

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.  

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