Altered Breast Size

What is Altered Breast Size?

In some patients with breast cancer, the breast that was treated can have changes in size or shape after surgery or radiation therapy. Surgical changes can happen right after surgery. Changes from radiation can cause scar tissue to develop months to years after treatment. This scar tissue can cause the breast to become smaller in size, change the way the skin looks, or the breast tissue may harden.

These changes may cause emotional and physical distress and can impact self-image and sexual function.

Management

If you have changes to your breasts that you are concerned about, talk to your care provider. It may feel uncomfortable bringing up issues about your sexuality with your care team. Ask for assistance from a social worker or psychologist who can support you with questions to ask as well as help you cope with the changes to your body.