Altered Breast Size

What is Altered Breast Size?

Treatment for breast cancer can cause changes to the size of your breast.  
There can also be changes to the shape and color of your breast. Surgical changes can happen right after surgery like scarring. 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

Ask your provider if your treatment may cause changes to your breast so you know what to expect. It may feel uncomfortable bringing up issues about your sexuality with your care team but there are ways to manage these issues. If you have any new or worsening changes in your breast, let your team know.