Has anyone had successful reconstruction after implant failure due to radiation?
I had my expanders swapped for implants 2 months ago. My incisions had healed, and I thought I was doing well, but I ended up with a massive infection in the side where I had cancer last week and had to have it removed. I had radiation, so the plastic surgeon said there was a 50/50 chance of this happening. I obviously have to give it time to adequately heal, and I don't want to put another implant in there again. Has anyone had success with other types of reconstruction post implant failure due to radiation? I am so angry right now, I feel like this has been a massive setback, especially when I had expanders in for 6 months after radiation without any skin or infection issues. I also feel like I look like a freak, and summer is here, and I am not going to be able to wear anything cute.
Posted Jun 29, 2026, 11:34 PM UTC