Preparing for Cancer Surgery: Lymphedema Prevention Tips

Understanding Your Lymphedema Risk

If you’re facing cancer surgery, particularly one involving lymph node removal or treatment, you may be at risk for developing lymphedema. While not everyone who undergoes these procedures will develop lymphedema, understanding your risk and taking proactive steps can make a significant difference.

Before Surgery: Prehabilitation

The period before surgery offers valuable opportunities to prepare your body and reduce future risk.

Establish a Baseline

Consider seeing a lymphedema therapist before surgery to:

Get baseline measurements of your limbs
Learn about lymphedema and risk factors
Understand early warning signs to watch for
Begin any recommended exercises

Optimize Your Health

Maintain a healthy weight - Obesity increases lymphedema risk
Stay active - Regular exercise supports your lymphatic system
Eat well - Good nutrition aids recovery
Stop smoking - Smoking impairs healing and circulation

Ask Your Medical Team

Questions to ask your surgeon:

How many lymph nodes will be removed?
What is my estimated lymphedema risk?
Should I see a lymphedema specialist before surgery?
What precautions should I take afterward?

During Recovery: Early Post-Operative Period

The immediate post-surgical period is important for healing and risk reduction.

Follow Medical Instructions

Keep incisions clean and dry
Take prescribed medications
Attend all follow-up appointments
Report any concerns promptly

Early Movement

When cleared by your surgeon:

Begin gentle range of motion exercises
Avoid prolonged immobility
Follow specific exercise instructions from your medical team

Watch for Warning Signs

Contact your medical team if you notice:

Increased swelling beyond normal post-surgical swelling
Redness, warmth, or fever (signs of infection)
Persistent numbness or tingling
Difficulty moving the affected area

Long-Term Risk Reduction

Lymphedema can develop months or even years after surgery. Long-term awareness is essential.

Protect the At-Risk Limb

Avoid injury - Cuts, burns, insect bites, and infections can trigger lymphedema
Be careful with blood pressure cuffs and blood draws - Ask for these on the unaffected side when possible
Wear gloves for gardening and housework - Protect against cuts and scratches
Use sunscreen - Prevent sunburns on the affected area

Lifestyle Considerations

Maintain healthy weight - Continue to manage your weight
Stay active - Regular, appropriate exercise supports lymphatic health
Avoid extreme temperatures - Very hot environments may increase risk
Be cautious with air travel - Consider wearing compression for long flights

Know the Early Signs

Early detection allows for early treatment. Watch for:

Swelling, even if mild or intermittent
Heaviness or tightness
Clothing or jewelry fitting differently
Skin changes
Aching or discomfort

If you notice any changes, contact a lymphedema specialist promptly. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.

If Lymphedema Develops

Despite best prevention efforts, some people do develop lymphedema. If this happens:

Don’t blame yourself - Lymphedema can occur even with careful precautions
Seek treatment early - The sooner treatment begins, the better the outcomes
Work with specialists - Certified lymphedema therapists provide effective treatment
Stay positive - Lymphedema can be well-managed with proper care

The Importance of Education

Understanding lymphedema empowers you to:

Take appropriate precautions
Recognize early symptoms
Seek timely treatment
Effectively manage your condition if it develops

Preparing for Cancer Surgery: Reducing Your Lymphedema Risk