Lymphoedema After Breast Cancer – What You Need to Know

Lymphoedema is a potential long-term side effect of breast cancer treatment but with early recognition and the right management, it doesn’t have to limit your life.

Many women notice subtle changes in their arm, breast or chest after treatment and wonder if it’s “normal.” Understanding the signs and knowing when to act is the key to keeping lymphoedema under control.

What Is Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is swelling caused by a build-up of lymphatic fluid when the lymph vessels or nodes are damaged or removed. In breast cancer, this can occur due to:

• Lymph node removal during surgery (sentinel or axillary clearance)

• Radiation therapy, which can scar or narrow lymph vessels

• Infection or injury in the affected arm or chest area

• Scarring or reduced movement in the shoulder and chest

Because the lymphatic system helps drain excess fluid and filter waste, any disruption can lead to fluid pooling most commonly in the arm, breast, or chest wall on the side of treatment.

Early Signs of Lymphoedema After Breast Cancer

Lymphoedema can develop soon after treatment or years later so it’s important to stay aware of early warning signs.

You might notice:

• A feeling of heaviness, tightness, or fullness in the arm or chest

• Clothing, bras, or jewellery feeling tighter on one side

• Mild swelling that comes and goes

• Aching or reduced flexibility in the shoulder, hand, or chest

• Subtle changes in skin texture or firmness

These early symptoms can appear long before visible swelling develops and that’s the best time to act.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Research shows that early detection and intervention can prevent lymphoedema from progressing. When identified early, swelling can often be controlled with simple self-management strategies and low-level compression rather than intensive treatment.

Early management helps to:

• Maintain arm strength and range of motion

• Reduce infection risk (cellulitis)

• Prevent permanent tissue changes

• Support comfort and confidence in daily life

If you’ve had breast cancer treatment, it’s recommended to have regular lymphoedema screening and annual reviews with an accredited lymphoedema practitioner.

👩‍⚕️ Prevention and Ongoing Care

Even if you haven’t noticed swelling, it’s worth getting a baseline lymphoedema assessment after treatment. This helps your practitioner detect any early changes and compare future measurements over time.

Tips to reduce risk:

• Avoid heavy lifting or repetitive strain in the affected arm until cleared

• Protect the skin from cuts, burns, and insect bites

• Maintain a healthy weight and stay active

• Wear properly fitted compression when flying or doing higher-risk activities

• Seek prompt treatment for any signs of infection (redness, heat, fever)

Lymphoedema Support After Breast Cancer in Toowoomba

If you’ve had breast cancer treatment and are experiencing swelling, heaviness, or tightness in your arm or chest or have been assessed with a SOZO with sub-clinical changes found, don’t wait for it to get worse, early management is key.

I provide lymphoedema assessment, early detection screening, treatment, and compression garment fitting for breast cancer survivors across Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.

You can start with a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your concerns and explore your options.