lopsided

haykat57,   I had the same problem after my lumpectomy.  The surgeon basically told me the same thing. I ended up having a mastectomy but until then I wore loose tops with short sleeves because the difference was pretty noticable. Made for an uncomfortably warm summer. 

I have seen on threads that some ladies are using "partial prostheses" to fill out the smaller side.  Also saw that some have used the gel "bust enhancers" (a kind of bra insert?) from the Wal-mart lingerie.  I hope that someone else comes along soon and has more suggestions.  God Bless. ~S

haykat57,

Sorry you're faced with this difficult problem. Enhancers are an option, but be aware that most good ones are made of silicone, which can be very sweaty when worn against your skin over your natural breast. Some women have few problems, others (like me) can't stand the feeling. Also, if you're having radiation, you'll need to wait until that's finished and your skin has recovered before putting silicone against it. There are some partial breast forms made of foam that you might try--not as natural-feeling as silicone but more comfortable and light. 

Regarding a mastectomy, that is an alternative and might give you more peace of mind. One thing to consider, though. After radiation, you won't be a good candidate for implant reconstruction (radiated skin doesn't stretch well and is more likely to form excessive scar tissue around the implant, leading to a condition called capsular contraction). If by having a mastectomy you could avoid radiation, then you probably would be able to have an implant. Your reconstruction alternative would be a flap using tissue from your tummy, buttocks, or back.

Even if you're not interested in reconstruction, you still might be better off leaving well-enough alone and using an enhancer. If the silicone bothers you, you could probably use a pocketed mastectomy bra for it. I suggest you go to a certified mastectomy fitter. They're trained to help women in your situation as well as women who have had mastectomies.

Another option would be a reduction of your good breast. Then you'd be smaller breasted on both sides and might be more comfortable during the hot Texas summers.

Barbara

I would go for the mastectomy to avoid radiation, if that were a possibility.  You could have reconstruction and a reduction of the other breast.

It seems to me that many women who do a lumpectomy with radiation end up with a mastectomy down the road.  Then there are complications from having  had the radiation and the way it affects the skin and tissue.  Most of the women, I know, with lymphedema are the ones who have had radiation.