Breast cancer radiotherapy uses targeted radiation to treat the breast, chest wall, or nearby lymph node areas. It is commonly given after breast surgery to reduce the chance of cancer returning locally.
Your plan depends on the type of surgery you had, your pathology result, and whether lymph nodes were involved.
Common Indications for Breast Cancer Radiotherapy
Your doctor may recommend it after:
- Lumpectomy or breast-conserving surgery.
- Mastectomy in higher-risk cases.
- Cancer found in lymph nodes.
- Large tumour size.
- Close or involved surgical margins.
- Selected cases where symptoms need control.
What exactly does breast radiotherapy treat?
It treats the area at risk of leftover cancer cells. This may be the whole breast, part of the breast, the chest wall, or lymph node areas near the armpit, collarbone, or chest.
How should I prepare?
You will have a planning appointment. Wear clothing that is easy to remove from the upper body. Tell the team if you cannot raise your arm comfortably.
Do I need to stop taking medication?
Usually no. Keep taking your regular medicines unless your doctor gives a different instruction.
What happens when I arrive for treatment?
The radiographers position you carefully, often lying on your back with one or both arms raised. They line up your marks and may take setup images.
How is the treatment performed?
The machine treats the planned breast or chest area from carefully chosen angles. It does not touch you, and you will not feel the radiation.
How long does breast radiotherapy take?
Each visit may take about 10 to 30 minutes. The full course can range from one week to several weeks, depending on your plan.
Is there any discomfort?
The treatment is painless. The arm position can be uncomfortable if your shoulder is stiff after surgery.
Are there risks?
Common side effects include tiredness, skin darkening or soreness, breast swelling, and tenderness. Rarely, treatment can affect the lung, heart, ribs, or arm swelling risk, depending on the area treated.
Can I have this treatment if I am pregnant?
Pregnancy Precaution
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or think you might be. Breast radiotherapy is usually avoided during pregnancy unless the specialist team has reviewed the risks and timing carefully.
When will I be reviewed?
You will usually have checks during treatment and follow-up after it ends. Skin changes can continue for a short time after the last session before they settle.
When should I contact the team urgently?
Contact the team promptly for fever with a worsening wound, rapidly increasing breast or arm swelling, severe skin breakdown, chest pain, or new or worsening breathlessness. Seek emergency care for severe chest pain or breathing difficulty.
Sources and further reading
- National Cancer Institute: Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer
- National Cancer Institute: Radiation Therapy Side Effects
Conclusion
Breast radiotherapy is a common part of breast cancer care after surgery. Tell the team early about skin pain, shoulder stiffness, swelling, or any wound problem before treatment starts.