This week, Dr. James Craigie of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your questions.
Q: After my breast reconstruction, I continue to have pain in my right breast after each mammogram. Last mammogram was two months ago. The pain wasn’t really sharp, but it did hurt where they made my reconstruction incisions. Is this normal?
A: I’m sorry you’re having difficulties. If you have had a mastectomy and reconstruction, then usually routine screening mammograms are not necessary. I would suggest asking your cancer doctor if you would be able to avoid screening mammograms altogether. Also: check with the doctor who ordered your mammogram, as he or she may have had a specific reason for ordering it other than routine screening. You still have to do self-exams, of course, and be checked for changes.
James Craigie, MD
Center For Natural Breast Reconstruction
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