Should I use compression sleeves after lumpectomy to prevent lymphedema?

This research-backed approach to lymphedema prevention sounds promising, and it's great that you're being proactive about your recovery. Many community members have shared valuable experiences with compression garments and other preventive strategies, so this discussion could be really helpful for others navigating similar decisions after breast surgery. Your healthcare team will be the best source for personalized guidance based on your specific surgery and recovery progress.

I specifically asked my oncologist if a compression sleeve was necessary for travel since I had a flight planned a few months after radiation ended. They said no, but I think it differs from person to person. I have had no issues so far. DMX 8/14/25, chemo ended 3/10/25, reconstruction 4/15/25, radiation ended 7/1/25.

Yes, studies show that compression sleeves likely help with lymphedema prevention. Because I had an axillary lymph node dissection—15 nodes removed with 6 cancerous—my surgeon gave me a referral to a physical therapist specializing in lymphedema. Over several appointments, she taught me a very gentle exercise routine and some lightweight dumbbell sequences. Both are recognized lymphedema preventative activities. As an aside, axillary radiation therapy increases the risk of lymphedema significantly. The PT also prescribed a compression sleeve and my surgeon wrote a prescription that made the sleeve coverable by insurance. As a lymphedema preventative measure, I was told to wear it every day. Mine is the lowest compression level. My arm will be reevaluated and measured every 6 months to monitor for swelling. If it occurs, a sleeve with more compression will be required. Lymphedema risk never disappears so it’s important to be proactive if you’ve had lymph node removal or radiation to your underarm.

Thank you.

I had lymph nodes removed and after surgery just wore the compression sleeve with air travel. My arm and hand started swelling 7 months after my double mastectomy. Now I see a PT weekly specialist in lymphedema, wear a pump for an hour on arm daily for one hour, wear compression sleeve and a compression glove. They’re very tight. Besides the attached to me post surgery, this is the worst thing. It’s forever they say and I have to learn to manage it. It’s a constant reminder of breast surgery, when I could have moved on. Wearing the beige sleeve and glove are hard, it’s like a fake arm and hand. Im really not seeing any improvement. The swelling comes and goes but mostly stays.

Oh Denise T am so sorry. This is what I’m desperately trying to avoid. I did get a PT referral this week. I had no node removal so that hopefully will minimize the chances of getting it.