Best doc to follow up on lymphedema?

Posted by catbuddy @catbuddy, Sep 24, 2023

I’m 10 months out from lumpectomy for DCIS, no lymph nodes involved, and bi-lateral breast reduction and lift. Recovery is good. However, at about 5 months or so out, when most of the surgery-related swelling was gone, I noticed swelling remaining under my arm at the side of the lumpectomy area. That has never gone away, and at my 6-month visit to the breast surgeon, she referred me to OT for lymphedema treatment. After 7 visits with massage to move the fluid out, the lymphedema therapist felt that the swelling would not reduce, and it remains. I want to follow up on dealing with it, and am wondering if I should go back to the breast surgeon or see the radiology oncologist instead. I’m scheduled with the radiation oncologist but not for 3 more months and I don’t want to wait that long b/c of this. Which doc might be more experienced in dealing with this? It’s a small amount of swelling, but the area is tender to light pressure. I’m concerned that just leaving it alone could mean future trouble and I’d like to do all I can to get rid of it. I’d appreciate some thoughts on this.

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@coloradored

Please ask your oncologist to schedule a breast ultrasound fir that breast & underarm area since you may have developed a seroma which is a collection of fluid that can be removed via needle drainage if particularly bothersome. I developed a seroma 18 months after my lumpectomy & it is rather small so we're just watching it. I also have persistent breast lymphedema most likely from my radiation treatment. Lymphatic massage did nothing & I am living with it. Just joyful to go on with my life.

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Thanks for these suggestions. Very helpful, and interesting to know that the massage didn’t help you either.

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@coloradored

Please ask your oncologist to schedule a breast ultrasound fir that breast & underarm area since you may have developed a seroma which is a collection of fluid that can be removed via needle drainage if particularly bothersome. I developed a seroma 18 months after my lumpectomy & it is rather small so we're just watching it. I also have persistent breast lymphedema most likely from my radiation treatment. Lymphatic massage did nothing & I am living with it. Just joyful to go on with my life.

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Thank you for sharing and being so positive!

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