Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons Serving Denver, Lone Tree, Colorado & Nationwide
Radiation therapy is increasingly being employed as a breast cancer treatment. It is a precise and effective way to destroy mutated cells and reduce recurrence risk. However, the delivery of radiation therapy can impact your breast reconstruction.
Although it is important to be aware of this relationship, know that many women have undergone successful breast reconstruction in the radiation setting. Talk to our board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeons about the options available in your unique situation.
Call 303-706-1100  today to schedule a consultation at The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery. We serve Denver, Lone Tree, and other areas of Colorado. As leaders in the Rocky Mountain region, we also welcome patients who travel to our practice from across the country.
Impacts of Radiation
The use of radiation affects both the cancer as well as the surrounding normal tissues. The changes in healthy tissues after radiation can be profound, including:
- Loss of elasticity
- Decreased wound healing capabilities
- Tissue thinning
Radiation therapy often precedes breast reconstruction. In these situations, the resulting tissue changes can pose a challenge for future cosmetic breast procedures. For example, it may not be possible to sufficiently expand scarred tissue after radiation.
Issues can also arise when radiation is administered after reconstruction. Because of this, our surgeons generally prefer to place a tissue expander after mastectomy and before a patient undergoes radiation. This approach maintains space in the breast until the therapy is complete, significantly increasing the success rate of subsequent reconstruction.
How Does Radiation Affect Implant Reconstruction?
Radiation therapy can affect the results and failure rates of any breast reconstruction. However, complication rates are particularly elevated in implant-based reconstructions.
Breast implants are foreign objects. When placed in the body, the implant becomes surrounded by a flexible capsule of scar tissue.
Issues arise when chest wall radiation causes the capsule to harden and contract. This condition is known as capsular contracture. It can cause your reconstructed breasts to be tight, hard, uncomfortable, or sit too high on your chest.
Possible Implant Problems and Failure
Capsular contracture is not the only concern for patients who undergo radiation and implant reconstruction. Other potential problems include:
- Implant asymmetry
- Visible implant rippling due to thin skin
- Changes in breast size, position, or shape
- Implant loss
- Infection
Breast implant removal is usually required to remedy a failed breast reconstruction. Failed reconstruction can be a difficult experience, particularly if consecutive implant procedures continue to produce poor outcomes. Fortunately, our surgeons offer breast reconstruction revision to help you achieve a favorable result.
Reasons to Consider Autologous Reconstruction After Radiation
Many plastic surgeons view autologous reconstruction (using a woman’s own tissues) as the optimal method for women with a history of radiation therapy. Though radiation therapy can affect the aesthetics and success of breast reconstruction, the use of more sophisticated flap techniques (such as DIEP flap) has demonstrated excellent success in achieving natural results.
With these considerations in mind, our surgeons are aware that there are situations where implants are the only choice for a patient undergoing radiation. Fortunately, there are ways to improve the success of implant procedures in the radiation setting, including placing a tissue matrix such as Alloderm® and performing the reconstruction in stages.
Implant Options for Successful Breast Reconstruction After Radiation
Two techniques can improve implant-based reconstruction after radiation:
- Supportive Tissue Matrix: A graft like AlloDerm® helps support the implant and may reduce complications by improving tissue integration.
- Staged Reconstruction:Â This involves placing a tissue expander first to stretch the skin, followed by radiation (if needed), and later replacing the expander with a permanent implant.
This method allows your body to adjust gradually, which should improve the outcome of the reconstruction.
Long-Term Results and What to Expect
Breast reconstruction after radiation can achieve lasting results, but changes in the skin and tissue may affect the outcome over time. Autologous reconstruction often holds up better in the long run, while implants in radiated tissue may have a higher risk of firmness or shifting. Regular follow-ups with your surgeon help monitor changes, and additional procedures may be needed to maintain symmetry or address complications.
Why Choose The Breast Center?
Dr. Christopher G. Williams and Dr. Jeremy Z. Williams have trained at some of the most well-respected medical institutions. That includes The Johns Hopkins Hospital, where they gained specialized skills in breast reconstruction, microsurgery, and complex reconstructive techniques. Dr. Christopher Williams has additional expertise in peripheral nerve surgery and tissue engineering, while Dr. Jeremy Williams has dedicated time to researching and developing new approaches in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Their training allows them to perform advanced procedures like DIEP flap breast reconstruction.
At The Breast Center at Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery, our focus is on patient safety, advanced surgical methods, and individualized care. Dr. Christopher Williams has worked on tissue engineering advancements and stem cell applications, while Dr. Jeremy Williams has contributed to published research on reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. They work together to help women navigate their reconstruction choices with clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, we offer financing options to help with the cost of breast reconstruction. Insurance coverage varies based on your provider and plan, and our team can assist in verifying your benefits. We accept multiple insurance plans, but coverage details differ, so we encourage you to contact our office for specific information.
For those needing additional payment flexibility, we offer financing through PatientFi, CareCredit, and Alphaeon Credit, which allow for monthly payment plans. We also accept major credit cards, including Visa, American Express, Mastercard, and Discover.
Radiation increases the risk of complications such as poor wound healing, scarring, or capsular contracture (hardening around an implant). Using a tissue matrix, staging the reconstruction process, or opting for autologous reconstruction can help reduce these risks. If complications arise, treatments like fat grafting, revision surgery, or implant replacement may be needed.
Radiation can slow down healing and affect how the skin and tissue respond after surgery. Patients may experience longer recovery times, increased swelling, or stiffness in the treated area. Your surgeon will monitor your healing closely and may recommend physical therapy, scar treatments, or additional procedures to improve flexibility and appearance over time.
Most surgeons recommend waiting at least six months after radiation therapy to allow tissues to heal before reconstruction. Timing depends on your skin’s recovery and overall health. Autologous (flap) reconstruction is often preferred since it handles radiation effects better than implants. Your surgeon will assess your healing and recommend the best approach for you.
Learn More About Breast Reconstruction and Radiation
Receiving appropriate cancer treatments is incredibly important. If radiation is necessary, you should not lose hope regarding your breast reconstruction options.
An early consultation with one of our surgeons will allow your treatment to be carefully coordinated with the ideal method of breast reconstruction. Please contact us online or call 303-706-1100  to schedule a one-on-one appointment. We serve Denver, Lone Tree, and other areas of Colorado.