I had cancer in both breasts so I had a double mastectomy then radiation to my whole chest. Plus they radiated the lymph nodes in my neck area on the left side due to the size of the cancer on that side. I asked the radiation oncologist if the large radiation area would make my side effects worse. He said no it would not. What ever reaction I had would be the same whether one breast or whole chest. The area would be bigger but the skin reaction would not be worse. For me, I had red skin like a bad sunburn and it eventually peeled. I never had open skin issues and no weeping. They gave me creams that worked really well in easing discomfort. I had some fatigue but never to the point that I had to miss work. I had 31 sessions M-F except Thanksgiving holidays. I am a 7th grade teacher. As soon as the dismissal rang I rushed to my appointment and then went home and relaxed and did not try to overdo housework, etc. My skin did darken for a while, but I am 18 months out from radiation and I can no longer tell the difference between radiated skin and un-radiated skin.

Thank you from sharing & I totally agree. All of this has a significant mark on us!

Blessings 🙏🏼

Hello,
I had a Lumpectomy and then 16 whole breast radiation treatments and 4 boost treatments which were focused radiation to the lumpectomy cavity.
Immediately following the lumpectomy surgery, I was given massage instructions for the incision areas to do daily. This worked as you can hardly see or feel my incision areas.
The initial prep and planning for the radiation=simulation takes about 6 minutes. They will do your Tattoo's. Just 3 small dots. They also made my pillow mold as well, which what your arms rest in each time you have your radiation so that you maintain the same position. Interesting process. The worst for me was having my breast exposed to men...but I just said to myself, "Well, gotta do what you gotta do, they are doing a job to save your life."
My skin did darken and get red and irritated from the radiation. The darkening was only specifically where they radiated, so pie shaped. The key is to use whatever lotion and/or creams they recommend daily (NOT within 4 hours PRIOR to radiation treatment) to keep moisture in your skin) I simply used the coconut oil and cream from The Dollar store.
Also, my nipple was very irritated and sore, I used "Soothies" which are used by Nursing Mom's, you buy them at Walmart or Target in the Baby section. They are Fabulous!
My radiation team did order Silvadene ointment for me at the end for my burn which works incredibly well.
My recommendations:
1. Moisturize your skin everyday start NOW!
2. Soothies for nipple pain
3. Wear NO Bra and choose cotton cami's or non-binding clothing for comfort.
4. Talk with your Radiation Oncologist or Team Members ASAP if anything is bothering you or you have questions. They are a GREAT resource.
5. Rest and Fluids and Nutrition are important during this time. Don't take on extra.
My words to share.

Thank you very much this is very helpful. Yes I’ve heard from others about aquaphor being helpful for them as well as aloe in the fridge.

Why not both in my mind. lol

Did you experience any tissue changes or hardening to the breast?

Prayers for you & so glad this part is over for you 🙏🏼

Hi Pixie🌸. I had 20 sessions of whole left breast radiation. I was very nervous in the beginning- getting the tattoos, etc. I found it helpful to watch a video on YouTube that showed the radiation machine and how it went around you. My skin started reacting after about 2 weeks. Aquaphor helped. I did get skin burn, itch and nipple pain as treatment went on. The team prescribed meds. Very uncomfortable the last week and after treatment. Took awhile for skin to calm down. I sometimes have foggy brain. Radiation doesn’t hurt. I listened to music during treatment- calming. Best of luck to you. I’m sure you’ll do well!!!💖💕🙏🏻