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Semin Plast Surg 2019; 33(04): 240-246
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1696963
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Breast Implants and Radiation

Alexander F. Mericli
1   Department of Plastic Surgery, Division of Surgery, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
,
Safa E. Sharabi
1   Department of Plastic Surgery, Division of Surgery, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
› Author Affiliations Funding The authors received no financial support for this article.
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Publication History

Publication Date:
17 October 2019 (online)

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Abstract

One of the most influential factors in the success of breast reconstruction is whether or not radiation therapy has or will be performed. While traditional teaching is that all breasts treated with radiation therapy must be reconstructed with an autologous component, many reconstructive surgeons perform implant-based breast reconstruction without an autologous component and have success doing so. The purpose of this article is to explore the risks, benefits, and nuances of performing implant-based breast reconstruction in the setting of radiation therapy. The authors performed a review of the literature of all topics relevant to performing implant-based reconstruction with radiation therapy.

Keywords

breast reconstruction - breast implants - radiation therapy - capsular contracture
 

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