I don't think it is accurate that 'everyone gets' lymphedema...I watched a Mayoclinic video and the percentage quoted was 17 to 21% of those with some sort of lymph node removal (including dissection) are affected by lymphedema. No the numb parts are not painful, just numb (so a strange feeling). I asked my surgeon if she had to cut any nerves and she said no, expect that peripheral nerves were cut for the mastectomy I had, so have strange nerve pain there. I try to go about my daily activities with the left arm, and do the exercises they recommend, and now can almost reach vertically with that arm, but not entirely. I wonder what your Dr means by limited dissection. I had 8 nodes taken out 2.5 yrs ago with my first bc and another 8 nodes this 2nd time (since a 'sentinal' node was not detected). I like to think maybe there are still some protective nodes left, since I've read that we have anywhere from 20 to 50 nodes in that area.... I am 70 yrs, and I can relate to your worry at your more advanced years, but I don't think lymphedema is inevitable. Also, there are meds for the pain, but I like to avoid meds so just endured it, but again it is now much more bearable than the first couple of weeks. All the best to you! We shouldn't have to be in this rocky boat!