Can you get lymphedema if you only had sentinel node removed?

Posted by sandyjr @sandyjr, Jun 25, 2019

I was speaking to the director of the cancer center where I am getting treatment and expressed my concern about getting lymphedema. I had bilateral breast cancer with lymph nodes removed. She says you do not get lymphedema from only having the sentinel nodes removed. If that is true I am going to kiss the ground. Please comment.

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@maggieb892

I am experiening the same thing. I was getting it undercontrol but had a flare up recently. PT thought it might have been stress and/or travel (which I have had both). She gave me a pad to compress the breast to force the fluid out. She also suggested wearing a compression tank top. I'm in the process of getting one. I need some suggestions from women who use them and what brands.

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I had a bilateral mastectomy five years ago and ended up with lymphedema in both breasts. My breast care nurse gave me a soft foam ball to place in my armpit. I bend my elbow towards my chest and then lower my arm to squeeze the ball. It gives me instant relief.

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Hi Sandy- I missed some of the posts, so maybe someone else has already passed this info on to you. I had the minimal (sentinel and 2 others) removed on left side. They give you exercises to do and be sure to do them. I got some mild lymphedema anyway. Don’t wait, go to therapist with expertise in lymphatic message. If they catch it early enough, they can reverse. My therapist made a big difference. She can also show you how to do it yourself. Best of luck.

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And you had a skilled surgeon like I did. Fingers crossed for you!!!

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@yani2023

Hi, had the same issue, My oncologist told me to keep my whole arm straight up lifted above my head as much as possible. This simple procedure helps to drain liquid accumulated. I did this 3 x a day for 2hr each time. In about 2 week, my swelling subsided. Hope this helps

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How were you able to do this? 6 hours a day????

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That is not true. 1% of those will h only sentinel node removed get breast lymphedema…

I am one.

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@gail2206

I had a bilateral mastectomy five years ago and ended up with lymphedema in both breasts. My breast care nurse gave me a soft foam ball to place in my armpit. I bend my elbow towards my chest and then lower my arm to squeeze the ball. It gives me instant relief.

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What is the size any any idea wher to get one?

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I had no lymph nodes removed and I have breast lymphedema. I had a lumpectomy with 4 weeks of radiation.

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@katrina123

I had no lymph nodes removed and I have breast lymphedema. I had a lumpectomy with 4 weeks of radiation.

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@katrina132

Are you doing manual massage and how long does it take?

Or did you get one of those vests to use? How long does that take?

At what point did you find out you had this and how???

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