When is radiotherapy used for breast cancer?
Radiotherapy is a common part of breast cancer treatment. It is usually given after breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) to lower the risk of the tumor returning, and in selected cases after a mastectomy, depending on the tumor and lymph node features. It may also treat lymph node regions or, in specific situations, help control symptoms. The indication always depends on your particular case and is defined together with your oncology team.
Techniques we use
- 3D conformal radiotherapy: three-dimensional planning that directs the dose to the breast or chest wall.
- IMRT (intensity-modulated): more uniform dose, useful to protect the heart and lung, especially for the left breast.
- Brachytherapy: in selected cases, internal radiation aimed at the tumor bed.
- Cardiac-sparing techniques and careful planning to reduce long-term side effects.
What treatment is like
Treatment is planned with a simulation CT scan and a personalized dose calculation. Sessions are daily, Monday to Friday, last a few minutes and are painless — similar to having an X-ray. The total number of sessions depends on the schedule chosen for your case. Throughout treatment, Dr. Baquero reviews your progress and explains how to prevent and manage skin effects.
Care in Barranquilla and Santa Marta
Dr. Baquero treats patients from Barranquilla, Santa Marta and across Colombia's Caribbean region. If you already have studies — biopsy, hormone receptors and HER2, PET-CT, mammogram, ultrasound or MRI — you can share them for a more precise assessment. He also offers a second opinion if you already have a radiotherapy plan recommended by another doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Does breast cancer radiotherapy hurt?
No. Each session is painless and quick, similar to having an X-ray. Some skin effects may appear over the course of treatment and are managed together with your doctor.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the schedule chosen for your case. Shorter (hypofractionated) schedules exist for selected patients; the exact number is defined during planning, after your assessment.
Will I be radioactive to my family?
With external radiotherapy, the most common type for breast cancer, you are not radioactive and can be with your family completely normally.
Will radiotherapy make me lose my breast?
No. Radiotherapy is precisely what allows the breast to be preserved after conserving surgery, treating the area to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Do you offer second opinions?
Yes. Many patients consult to confirm or review a radiotherapy plan already recommended. Having your studies on hand helps guide your case.
Ready for an assessment?
Dr. Baquero will personally review your case. Care in Barranquilla · Santa Marta.
The information on this page is educational and does not replace an individual medical assessment.