Lymphedema

What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is swelling that occurs due to a buildup of lymph fluid in tissues. It can happen after breast cancer treatment if lymph nodes are removed or damaged from radiation therapy.

Texas Oncology’s Lymphedema Prevention Program provides routine screening for lymphedema. Early detection can prevent symptoms from becoming worse and help you maintain your quality of life.

Lymphedema Screening And Diagnosis 

Lymphedema screening and diagnosis are important parts of recovery after breast cancer surgery. At Texas Oncology, we use advanced tools to track small fluid changes, helping to detect and manage lymphedema early. Our team is here to support you with expert monitoring and personalized care.

Screening for lymphedema

All patients undergoing breast cancer surgery should consider lymphedema screening to detect lymphedema in its early stages. The Lymphedema Prevention Program at Texas Oncology aims to reduce a patient’s risk of developing lifelong lymphedema through screening and early detection — with the goal of preventing it from getting worse.

To screen for lymphedema, your care team will measure the fluid status and tissue composition in your arms and legs before surgery (to establish a baseline). This evaluation takes place every 3-6 months after surgery and continues for up to 5 years, and annually thereafter. By tracking small changes in an extremity over time, your doctor can identify lymphedema in its earliest stages and prescribe treatments to manage its progression.

Diagnosing lymphedema

In the past, it was challenging to detect and diagnose breast cancer-related lymphedema other than by observing swelling. A process called bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), which measures the body’s resistance to a weak electrical current, now allows physicians to measure lymph fluid changes. From this test, doctors calculate a lymphedema index (L-DEX) ratio to assist with detection and proper diagnosis.

Stages of lymphedema

Doctors use the following staging system to determine how severe lymphedema is:

Stage 0
There is no visible swelling, but the area may feel heavy, full, or tight. This stage is reversible.

Stage I (Mild)
Swelling is noticeable, and the area might also feel heavy, full, or tight. If the arms or legs are affected, elevating them often reduces the swelling. Lymphedema is typically reversible at this stage.

Stage II (Moderate)
Swelling is more pronounced than in Stage I. Elevating the arm or leg no longer relieves the swelling. Symptoms are more severe and may still be reversible if addressed early.

Stage III (Severe)
There is significant swelling that can interfere with self-care and daily activities. The skin may become dry, thickened, or discolored and may leak fluid or develop blisters. This stage is usually not reversible.

Lymphadema Treatment

Common treatments for lymphedema include:

Complete decongestive therapy (CDT)

CDT is the gold standard of care, combining manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), compression bandaging, skin care education, and therapeutic exercise.

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)

MLD is a gentle massage that moves lymph fluid to healthy areas for drainage.

Compression therapy

Compression therapy employs custom-fitted garments or multilayered bandages designed to help prevent fluid buildup and maintain results.

Exercise

Low-intensity exercises promote muscle pumping to move lymph fluid and improve mobility.

Skin and nail care

Moisturizing and protecting your skin helps prevent infections that could worsen swelling.

Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC)

With IPC, a machine inflates a sleeve to apply pressure and move fluid when garments or MLD aren't enough.

Self-care training

Your care team will teach you self-MLD, compression use, exercise, and skin care for long-term maintenance.

Surgical options

For severe cases of lymphedema, procedures include lymphatic bypass, liposuction to remove fat buildup, or vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT).

Weight loss

Addressing obesity can reduce lymphedema related to cancer.

Detecting lymphedema early and getting tailored therapy from trained providers offer the best chance of controlling the condition and preserving your quality of life.

FAQs

Does lymphedema go away?

Unfortunately, the lymphatic system can’t repair itself. Once an area has been damaged from surgery, radiation, or trauma, it doesn’t heal on its own.

While lymphedema can be managed, it’s a lifelong condition. If not treated, the protein-rich lymphatic fluid is a breeding ground for bacteria and infections that can become serious. Lymphedema tends to worsen over time without treatment.

How common is lymphedema in breast cancer patients?

Approximately 1 in 5 women treated for breast cancer will go on to develop lymphedema. The likelihood increases with the amount of breast tissue removed, the number of lymph nodes removed, and the number and extent of radiation treatments. That’s why it’s important for breast cancer patients to understand the symptoms and how they can reduce their risk.

What insurances does Texas Oncology accept?

At Texas Oncology, we strive to provide affordable care. That includes accepting a wide range of insurances. We accept most insurance plans and work with other insurance companies to establish coverage for patients whenever possible.

Why Choose Texas Breast Specialists

Our team of breast care professionals is dedicated to your health and well-being. When you come to us for care, you’ll find: