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Can you get lymphedema if you only had sentinel node removed?
Breast Cancer | Last Active: Dec 9, 2023 | Replies (48)Comment receiving replies
I am scheduled for dissection. of axillary mode as one has cancer in it...enlarged.... Had IDC in 2016 so this is recurrence. Am really scared. Can anyone who had this surgery tell me your experience...and how did you handle the tube drain...??? My lumpectomy was easy .
Replies to "I am scheduled for dissection. of axillary mode as one has cancer in it...enlarged.... Had IDC..."
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Hi Catherine,
I might be totally misunderstanding your question but I had a sentinel lymph node excised when I had a lumpectomy and had no drainage tube or any healing issues. The residual scar, a year later, is nearly invisible and looks like a fading kitty scratch.
If you are only having one or a few nodes removed, it might be a relatively easy procedure? If you're having all the nodes removed in that area, ask the surgeon or oncologist for as much support as is available, including post-surgery physical therapy. That can make a big difference and potentially the chances of edema and discomfort while you recover. Sending best wishes to you and, really, all of us in the frontlines.