Post Breast Cancer Surgery Care
Specialising in breast surgery recovery, lymphoedema treatment and management and restoring range of movement.
It is our goal to prevent lymphoedema occurring or at least detect it early to avoid long term problems. Prevention and early detection are the keys to success and there are things that can be done to help reduce the risk!
The risk is highest for people who have most of the lymph nodes removed from the axilla which is known as an axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) (up to 20%) and for those who have both ALND and radiotherapy to the lymph nodes in the axilla (up to 30%).
A newer surgical technique known as sentinel node biopsy (SNB) has a lower risk of developing lymphoedema (<5%)
The therapist will discuss your symptoms with you and examine and measure your arm and breast/chest to find out how severe your lymphoedema is. A treatment plan can be designed for your unique situation.
LEARN MORE Post Radiation
Axillary Cording
Also known as Axillary Web Syndrome (AWS) is a condition that can occur after breast cancer surgery, particularly following lymph node removal. It is characterised by the development of fibrous bands or cords in the axilla, sometimes extending down to the elbow and forearm. It may appear several days or weeks after surgery and can take months to resolve.
The exact cause of axillary cording syndrome is not fully understood, but it is believed to result
from damage to lymph vessels, blood vessels, or nerves during surgery.
Gentle massage techniques in combination with stretching exercises, and where clinically appropriate, low level laser light therapy can improve and resolve cording. Your therapist will create a treatment plan and home program for you to help improve and restore your range of movement. With timely treatment, many clients can effectively manage this condition, enhance recovery and their quality of life.
Seroma
A seroma is a collection of fluid that builds up under the skin. Experts suggest that up to 85%* of people who undergo mastectomy surgery for breast cancer experience some type of seroma.
*Potential Risk Factors Influencing the Formation of Postoperative Seroma After Breast Surgery – A Prospective Study
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21873/anticanres.14838
The fluid (serum) is a mixture of lymphatic fluid and plasma, the liquid part of blood. Serum builds up in the empty space beneath the skin where you received an incision. It may take several weeks after surgery for serum and swelling to appear.
In many cases, small seromas can get better on their own without treatment. Sometimes, however, a seroma may require medical intervention (aspiration).
Scar release techniques and lymphatic taping can be effective in seroma reduction. Your therapist will discuss with you if this treatment option is suitable.
LEARN MORE – Neuromuscular Taping
LEARN MORE - Scar Release Therapy
Post surgery scar treatment and radiation skin care
Scar treatments will not commence until 6-8 weeks post radiation and will require clearance from your radiation oncologist.
Your radiation care team and / or breast care nurse will give you skin care advice during and following your radiation treatment.
The aftereffects of radiation treatment can include skin thickening, adhesions and hyperpigmentation.
We have several treatment options available; these can be discussed with you during your initial consultation and can often be combined with MLD (manual lymphatic drainage) or remedial massage treatments or performed as stand-alone treatment sessions.
LEARN MORE – Skin Care