people who have had any of the following procedures may be at risk for developing lymphedema: simple mastectomy in combination with axillary (arm pit) lymph node removal. lumpectomy in combination with axillary lymph node removal. modified radical mastectomy in combination with axillary lymph node removal. combined cancer surgery and radiation therapy to a lymph node region (such as the neck armpit groin pelvis or abdomen). radiation therapy to a lymph node region. lymphedema can occur within a few days months or years after surgery. a small amount of swelling is normal for the first four to six weeks after surgery.
who is at risk for developing lymphedema?