All treatments for breast cancer carry some risk of side effects. Most side effects can be managed and will improve with time. It is important to consider the benefits of treatment along with possible side effects when making decisions about treatment. Talk to your doctor about any side effects that concern you.
Side effects of surgery may include pain, discomfort and or numbness in the chest area or in the armpit (axilla). Some people who have surgery and/or radiotherapy to the armpit may develop lymphoedema (swelling in the arm). More information about the side effects of surgery is available on this site.
Side effects of radiotherapy may include tenderness or a feeling of tightness in the treated breast, and changes to the skin of the breast such as redness or swelling. More information is available on this site about side effects of radiotherapy and skin care during treatment.
The side effects of chemotherapy and hormonal therapies will depend on which drugs are used. Further information is available on this site about side effects of chemotherapy and side effects of hormonal therapy.
