I have implants can I get radiation/lumpectomy?

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lrfortuna
lrfortuna Member Posts: 11
edited June 2014 in DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ)

Need any info/advice.  I am 42 years old recently diagnosed DCIS grade 3 solid type with necrosis confirmed just one area left breast due to two subsequent biopsies of other areas identified on breast MRI and second look at mammograms.  My surgeon says it is small area and recommends lumpectomy/radiation and probably tamoxifen and has scheduled lumpectomy for 9/7.  Oncologist appt week later.  I have saline implants behind muscle done approx 10 yrs ago, never had any problems with them.  Surgeon says due to fact that DCIS area is extremely close to implant I most likely will have to have whole-breast radiation rather than something local/internal.  Is this likely to cause an issue with my implants?  Surgeon dismissed when I asked but now I am reading more and getting worried.  I don't want to have lumpectomy then be told I can't get radiation, and/or need another surgery when I could have had one and gotten the whole thing taken off and re-done.  I am not at all attached to these breasts or implants, trust me!!!  I'd rather just know the plan is better both for recurrence and cosmetically than alternative.  Anyone else out there with similar situation or advice?  Thanks for taking the time to read for any help.

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  • mom3band1g
    mom3band1g Member Posts: 817
    edited August 2011

    I don't have the answers you need but I would consult with the Rad onc and a Plastic surgeon.

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  • lrfortuna
    lrfortuna Member Posts: 11
    edited August 2011

    Thanks I guess I will slow things down and do that.  Is that usually done before the surgery?  The only appt I have at surgeon's advice is medical oncologist for after the lumpectomy.  So I need to find a totally separate radiation oncologist and plastic surgeon prior to surgery as well?  I am happy to do that, but I am finding it disconcerting that this wasn't offered or instructed to me by the surgeon prior to plowing ahead with this lumpectomy.  Thanks for your reply.

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  • cycle-path
    cycle-path Member Posts: 1,502
    edited August 2011

    With DCIS you can afford to take some time and make decisions you're comfortable with. If you think your BS is being dismissive, talk to some others. The last thing you need is someone who won't listen to your concerns. The BS might think you're being ridiculous, but it's his/her job to take your issues seriously even if they sound irrational to him or her. Find someone who does take you seriously.

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