Manicures/Gel Nails Ok?

Britt

Hello everyone -

Please pardon the superficiality of this topic, but is it safe to get manicures or gel nails after having an axillary node dissection (on my right side - they only took out 11 nodes).

So far I have had no signs of lymphedema but have been very careful about scratches and bug bites and lifting heavy objects with my right hand -

But since I am venturing out into the world again, I would like my nails to look nicely groomed.

So - how many of you have continued to have manicures/gel nails/acrylic nails in this type of situation?

Many thanks -

Maria 

OtraVez

I live for my weekly manciures.  I had to stop during chemo, but no problems otherwise. 

Becuase of concerns of infection that could lead to lymphadema (and becuase you never get out of the "germ avoidance" mode after chem!), I invested in my own set of tools.  They keep them at the shop, disinfect them when I'm done, and there're always there for my exclusive use.  A little pricier than I'd expected, but I've only had to replace on utensil in 2 years time. 

hollyann

If you don't have your own utensils please don't let them cut your cuticles.....This raises the risk of lymphedema and infection...........I still have yet to go get a manicure or gel nails as I am too afraid of lymphedema......Go figure after a bilat and TRAM I am scared of a manicure!.....How sane is that?......

OneBadBoob

Even with your own tools, do not let them cut your cuticles!!!  Keep them moisturized and gently pushed back.

We have an article regarding this at StepUp-Speakout.Org.

Member_of_the_Club

The place where I get manicures sterilizes their tools.  They take them out of those sealed sterile bags like doctors' tools.  So I don't bring my own, but I still won't let them cut my cuticles.

haltsaluteatx

I am having my first mani and pedi on Friday. I am getting married on Satureday. Thanks for the information. My LE is the best it has ever been so I am being extra cautious.

Nicole

Kay-kay

Great info.  Currently my nails on my left hand (RIBP & LE) appear "infected" or leaking Lymph fluid.  I do not want my nails to fall off. I'm unsure if it's due to the manicures or the RIBP.  I'm going to check with my doctor for insight on treatment.

I continued the manicures and polishing, because my nail beds turned black from chemo.

Any input?? 

    

  

mumito

I have had gel nails for years and even kept them through chemo and rads. But if you decide to get gels make sure you go to a salon with experienced staff and tell them you do not want to be cut or accidently knicked.So far I have avoided LE.. ((Touch Wood)))

Maggerle

I really appreciate this thread...After 25 years, I've developed lymphedema, and wondered the same thing...Fortunately, although I have had my cuticles trimmed in the past, I choose not to, because it hurts...I've been getting acrylic nails for years...I'm presuming acrylic and gel are the same...

exbrnxgrl

Hi Maggerie,

This is a very old, inactive thread. No one has posted since 2009. Still a valid topic, however, you might want to start a new thread to further the discussion. I am no nail expert, but I think acrylic and gel nails are different.