Living with Lymphedema After Breast Cancer Surgery

I have not, thankfully. Have you asked your doctor to refer you to a lymphedema specialist?

My primary doctor said to put my arm in a sling to rest and keep elevated I will be seeing my oncology Dr and talking about my lymphedema I will need a sleeve to wear over my arm Fashion statement

Hope you can see a lymphedema specialist. My surgeon recommended one. So glad I went. Gave me exercises and did deep muscle massages. Insurance covered a lymphedema press for use at home. When I see swelling coming back I use it. I hate sitting for an hour but it keeps the swelling at bay…good luck.

I have mild lymphedema in my arm. I have compression sleeves and a machine with a compression arm and vest that I am supposed to wear everyday for 50 minutes. I’m not very compliant with that.

Insurance covers the plain boring color sleeves but there is a website called lymphaDIVA that has many stylish designs for compression sleeves and compression gloves. They’re expensive but it is nice to treat yourself now and then.

Thank you all.

Six weeks after my double mastectomy, I was sent to physical therapy for “cording” and mild lymphedema. My insurance covers about half the cost. Just this week I was measured for and received 3 sleeves. Insurance covers 3 new sleeves every 6months plus one day. My arm feels so much better! The cording is almost gone after 2 months of PT twice a week! It’s SO worth it!

Did you have axillary node resection along with DMX?

I had lymphadenitis. My Dr sent me to an Occupational Therapist specializing in Lymphatic drainage. Not only did she drain the backed up lymph she taught me the techniques to use myself at home. I did have to also wear the compression shirt,sleeve and glove for a time but it was well worth the effort

Lymphedema after breast cancer surgery is more common than many people realize, and the symptoms described sound very challenging to deal with daily. Many community members have found relief through lymphatic drainage massage, compression garments, and working with certified lymphedema therapists who specialize in post-surgical care. Connecting with others who have navigated similar experiences can provide valuable insights about management techniques that have helped them find comfort and improved function.