What kind of provider for LE?

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Tmh0921
Tmh0921 Member Posts: 714
edited July 2019 in Lymphedema

I was originally Dx with IDC in 1999, had a lumpectomy, ALND (14 nodes), and radiation. I've never really had LE issues other than some light swelling if I get too hot.

I was recently Dx with a new IDC, same breast. I've already had a core biopsy of the mass and 2 suspicious nodes. The mass was malignant, the node tissue they sampled was not.

I'm scheduled for a BMX with a latissimus Doris flap and TE on the left (due to prior radiation), and just a TE on the right. They will also be tracing and removing a few nodes.

I've never seen anyone for LE, but believe I probably should prior to surgery. My left arm is already a bit sore and achy since the core biopsy in May, and I'm afraid the MX and node removal will trigger LE.

With that long winded explanation, what kind of healthcare provider do I see for LE?

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  • Moderators
    Moderators Member Posts: 25,912
    edited July 2019

    Hi Tmh0921,

    You're sure to get some helpful responses here, but in the meantime, we found this info on the Finding a Lymphedema Therapist page from the main Breastcancer.org site, which also has other helpful points:

    "...there are a wide range of health care professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of lymphedema after breast cancer. These include physical medicine doctors (physiatrists), nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and massage therapists specializing in lymphedema therapy. Most cancer centers and hospital-based cancer programs will be able to refer you to a provider with expertise in breast cancer-related lymphedema. If your doctor doesn't volunteer the information, ask for it."

    We hope this helps!

    --The Mods

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  • Tmh0921
    Tmh0921 Member Posts: 714
    edited July 2019

    Thank you moderators!

    I wasn't even sure where to start, and didn't think to ask my MO or either surgeon. I'll look at the link you posted!

    Tracy

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  • Runrcrb
    Runrcrb Member Posts: 577
    edited July 2019

    call your breast surgeon for a referral to a lymphedema specialist. It’s a specialty and related to physical therapy practices. Many insurance providers will require a referral.

    On a separate question, are you pursuing a lat flap for any particular reason? Since you are doing implants anyway I would question the need to move your back muscle since you need that to maintain good posture as you age.

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  • Tmh0921
    Tmh0921 Member Posts: 714
    edited July 2019

    I had radiation to the same breast in 1999 and the skin is damaged / very thin. I wanted to have a DIEP but didn't have enough fat / tissue on my abdomen

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