Can I Have Breast Lifts And Implants If I Have Had A Prior Lumpectomy With Radiation?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I had a lumpectomy and radiation on my right breast in 2013. I would like to have a breast lift and implants. Will radiation prevent me from being able to have surgery?

A: Your question is very appropriate as radiation changes the quality of the tissues in its path and their ability to heal in addition to dramatically increases the risks of implant-related complications, (e.g., infection, capsular contracture) So jumping in and doing a breast lift and implant would likely lead to a high rate of complications.

In radiated tissues the key is to change the quality of the tissues by initial fat injections before doing any invasive surgery. Such fat injections are done three months before any aesthetic breast surgery is undertaken.

These are general principles in irradiated tissues and how they may specifically apply to your breast needs requires a picture assessment of your current breast shape.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana