Does reconstruction increase the chance for lymphedema?

Options
rianne2580
rianne2580 Member Posts: 191
edited June 2014 in Living Without Reconstruction After a Mastectomy

I met a lymphedema specialist of some 25 years at the dog park. I told her I did not have reconstructive surgery after my RMT because I hate the thought of a foreign object under my chest muscle. She said recon also increases the chance of lymphedema. I was surprised to hear that. She also felt in her years as a L.S. and physical therapist women had a hard time with recon, pain, movement of the implant, uncomfortable sleeping etc.

Any thoughts on this?

· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • LuvRVing
    LuvRVing Member Posts: 4,516
    edited January 2012

    That's why flap reconstruction is so much better, in my opinion.  Many DIEP surgeons take extra precautions to prevent lymphedema as a result of the surgeries.  There is probably always a risk.

    I had TEs inserted when I had my BMX in April.  I didn't have a lymphedema problem.  But everyone's experience is different.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories