This will depend on factors such as type, size, and stage of disease, general health and age. This is the use of x-rays to kill cancer cells. Treatment is carefully planned to reduce any effect on normal cells. In early breast cancer, radiotherapy may be given in combination with local excision or mastectomy. It is used to kill any cancer cells, which may remain in the area.
Treatment is given five days a week over several weeks.
It is painless and only takes a few minutes for each treatment. An extra radiation does may be given to where the breast cancer was located. Side effects of radiotherapy may include general tiredness and some reddening or 'sunburning' of the skin. It may help to wear loose cotton clothing. When having radiotherapy a patient may need more rest.