I had a double mastectomy 3/3/25 with only 1 sentinel node removed in the compromising Rt breast. I ended up with lymphedema at least that's what we think it is. The swelling is not too noticeable. I only noticed it myself, I think when the numbing went down in that area. It feels puffy so my therapist says she wasn't sure at 1st if it really is lymphedema, but we are treating as if it is. The area is my armpit and straight across to my chest only on the rt and in the fat pad of my shoulder blade area.
My concern now is I also have nerve pain. I have the iron bra syndrome too, which is slowly going away. But the nerve pain is crazy. It calms down at night when I'm still lying down. Once I get up and moving it comes back. The pain is like a severe sunburn, and it can act up at times like it's a motor going crazy with the pain. I'm now on Gabapentin but it is only masking it a bit. I just started using an Infared sauna. I have heard good reports on it for treating lymphedema and wound therapy, yet there isn't much as far as studies done on it. I don't use the real high heat through.

Hi,

I had mastectomy on the left side with 2 sentinel nodes removed. This was 4 years ago and I don't have any lymphedema. It is low with 2 or 3 removed. From what I was told the more lymph nodes that are taken out the more a chance to have lymphedema.
Good luck and sending hugs.

I had a double mastectomy w/ 2-3 nodes biopsied as well 3/21/24 and did not develop lymphedema. Prior to the surgery however, I had a cancer nutritionist who provided me with a food plan and had a blood test that identifies food sensitivities by analyzing the inflammatory response of white blood cells to various foods and chemicals (MRT). Further, the oncologist stated to stay hydrated and exercise. I also used a vibration plate before and after surgery (get doctor approval for after surgery). This assisted with the lymphatic movement and increased my recovery. I did not develop lymphedema.