Radiation fibrosis vs axillary webbing

I am 5.5 years out from lumpectomy, an infection in lymp removal site, and radiation. I have a noticeable swelling in the armpit and under my breast with some trunk and left arm lymphatic congestion. I have noticed my breast getting more lumps. The radiologist always mentions fibrocystic breast. I found a significant lump in my other breast and after lots of frustration on my part of not getting a clear answer of what it is I had an ultrasound that identifies as a normal appearing lymph node. Hope that helps you to have some peace as you await your test.

A good physical exam by someone with experience in this area. (Not necessarily the breast surgeon or NP.) Suggest a Physical Therapist with experience in post breast surgery complications. I have had the beginnings of “webbing/cording” or fibrosis within 1 year of lumpectomy and radiation and sought physical therapy with great results. The breast oncology NP I saw for the complaint of pain and tightness knew nothing about this side effect or complication. I was further disappointed that no one on the team offered any post treatment exercises. (And this was at a big boston hospital cancer center).
Good luck there is light at end of this tunnel…I have had no return of the problem. The treatment took about 10 weeks.

Thank you for both your reassurance and advice as well as sharing a bit of your own story. I plan to find specific breast cancer rehab PT. Thanks everyone for your answers!

20 sessions of radiation finished on March 1st. Took a couple of months for the fibrosis to set in. Had three sessions with a BC Rehab PT which gave me back my range of motion. I do the stretches regularly. The fibrosis is merely an inconvenience now. Best wishes to you!

Thank you. Best to you!!!!