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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Swelling In The Arm After Mastectomy?

I had a double mastectomy 3 years ago. The breast cancer only affected the left side where I had 24 lymph nodes removed. Of that number 24 were positive. I am said to be cancer free. Anyway, my left arm has begun swelling and is very red and hot. The skin comes back very little when pressed with finger. Serious????
Thu, 15 Nov 2018
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Cardiologist,  's  Response
Hi,

Swelling of arms is usual after mastectomy when lymph nodes are removed as well, but if there is redness of the skin, then there may be an infection, so I would recommend you to see your doctor check if there is any inflammation of the skin.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Lilit Baghdasaryan,
Cardiologist
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What Causes Swelling In The Arm After Mastectomy?

Hi, Swelling of arms is usual after mastectomy when lymph nodes are removed as well, but if there is redness of the skin, then there may be an infection, so I would recommend you to see your doctor check if there is any inflammation of the skin. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Lilit Baghdasaryan, Cardiologist