Impact of radiotherapy on breast cosmesis

In breast-conserving therapy, cosmesis is significantly influenced by both surgery and radiotherapy. This paper specifically addresses the impact of radiation-induced effects on the cosmetic result, based on a review of current literature. The incidence and time course of breast oedema, skin changes and fibrosis are discussed, particularly with respect to the stability of the cosmetic outcome as a function of time. The potential influence of patient-related factors, radiation technical factors, and systemic treatment is reviewed.