Radiotherapy for breast cancer

Radiotherapy uses high energy x-rays to kill cancer cells. Find out about planning radiotherapy for breast cancer, how you have treatment, and about the possible side effects.

Planning radiotherapy

The radiotherapy team plan your treatment by working out the exact dose of radiotherapy you need.

Having radiotherapy for breast cancer

You might have external beam radiotherapy after breast surgery to lower the risk of the cancer coming back. Find out more

Side effects of breast radiotherapy

The side effects of external radiotherapy to the breast include tiredness and changes to the skin in the treatment area.

Internal radiotherapy and radiotherapy during surgery for breast cancer

Internal radiotherapy to the breast is not standard treatment in the UK. You might have it as part of a clinical trial.

Last reviewed: 
26 Jan 2021
Next review due: 
26 Jan 2024
Coronavirus and cancer

We know it’s a worrying time for people with cancer, we have information to help.

Read our information about coronavirus and cancer