Breast Radiotherapy

What is Radiotherapy?

For detailed information on what radiotherapy is and how it works please visit our general radiotherapy page HERE.

What should I expect after being referred for breast radiotherapy?

Once you have been referred for radiotherapy you will have an initial appointment with a Consultant Oncologist, Consultant Radiographer or Specialist Registrar. They will go through specific details of treatment based on the cancer than you have or had. This will include the number of treatment you need and the areas of your body we need to treat to shrink your cancer or reduce the risk of it returning.

What happens during Radiotherapy?

We have created a short video to help explain the radiotherapy process. If possible watch this video before attending for your first appointment with your Consultant. It may be beneficial to watch the video with a friend or family member and make notes or write a list of questions you may have.

Your Breast Radiotherapy Appointment

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive myself to appointments?

Yes you can, there are no immediate after effects from radiotherapy.

Can I go near my children/ grandchildren/ pets after radiotherapy?

Yes, modern breast radiotherapy is produced by electricity, not a radioactive source. Therefore, once it is switched off at the end of treatment it disappears, much like a CT scan or X-ray. You are not radioactive after radiotherapy.

Do I need to do anything specific to help my skin?

Up to date skin care advice can be found in our information leaflet by clicking the icon below:

Is there anything I can’t do during radiotherapy?

You are able to carry on with your normal activities throughout radiotherapy. We advise you not to use swimming pools or hot tubs as the chlorine will irritate the skin further. You can use these again once your skin reaction has settled after treatment.

You should continue with normal medications and diet unless advised differently by your medical team.

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If you need further information or support:

If you have further questions you can discuss these with any of the staff looking after you at Clatterbridge, including your Consultant or Consultant Radiographer, Registrar, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Advanced Nurse Practitioners or Radiographers.

You can also contact the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre Hotline up to 6 weeks after your treatment has finished on 0800 169 5555

Further advice and support is available from your Breast Care Nurse at the hospital where you have had your surgery.

Other services:

Maggie’s Centre - Wirral

Tel: 0151 334 4301