EXPERIENCE WITH REDUCTION MAMMAPLASTY FOLLOWING BREAST-CONSERVATION SURGERY AND RADIATION-THERAPY

Little is known about the outcome of breast reduction in the previousl y radiated breast. With the increased popularity of breast conservatio n in the management of breast cancer, it is inevitable that more women with breast cancer who have had a breast radiated will be seeking br- east reduction. Although it would be expected that reduction of the ra diated breast would be more challenging and would field less-pleasing results, it Il;rs been unclear whether reduction in the radiated breas t could be safely performed without interfering with mammography and c ancer surveillance. Our experience using different techniques in three patients demonstrates that such reductions can be effectively and saf ely done if certain principles are followed. Pedicles should be de sig ned to be broader and shorter than usual, and bl-east flaps should be undermined or elevated either minimally or not at all.