Cancer-Related Lymphedema Care
Protecting your health before and after cancer surgery.
Protecting Your Health Before and After Cancer Surgery
Cancer treatment can affect the lymphatic system and may increase the risk of developing lymphedema. Lymphedema can occur after lymph node removal, radiation, breast surgery, or other cancer treatments and may develop months or even years after treatment.
The best time to learn how to reduce your risk and establish a baseline is before surgery.
Pre-Mastectomy Lymphedema Evaluation
If you are preparing for a mastectomy, lumpectomy, lymph node surgery, or other breast cancer treatment, a preoperative lymphedema evaluation can provide valuable education and establish your individual baseline before treatment begins.
Establishing a baseline before treatment allows us to identify changes that may not yet be visible or noticeable. Early identification provides an opportunity for appropriate intervention before swelling becomes more advanced.
During your appointment, you will receive:
- Education about your individual risk for developing lymphedema
- Information about signs and symptoms to watch for
- Strategies to help protect your lymphatic system before and after surgery
- Guidance regarding movement, exercise, skin care, and recovery
- Baseline measurements to allow for comparison following surgery and throughout cancer treatment
- L-Dex®/bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) assessment using SOZO® technology
SOZO® L-Dex® Monitoring
Our clinic offers SOZO® bioimpedance spectroscopy with L-Dex® technology, a quick, non-invasive assessment that provides objective information about changes in fluid within the limb.
L-Dex measurements can be used to establish a baseline before cancer treatment and to monitor for changes during survivorship. This gives you and your healthcare team objective information to help identify potential lymphatic changes early.
SOZO® Bioimpedance Spectroscopy
Quick. Non-invasive. Objective fluid monitoring with L-Dex® technology.
After Surgery & Throughout Cancer Treatment
Lymphedema risk can continue throughout and after cancer treatment. We provide ongoing assessment and specialized lymphedema care for patients following:
If changes are identified, early evaluation and treatment can help manage symptoms and support your long-term function and quality of life.
Don't Wait for Swelling to Appear
Lymphedema is not always obvious in its earliest stages. Feelings of heaviness, tightness, fullness, aching, or changes in how clothing or jewelry fits can sometimes occur before visible swelling.
A preoperative appointment gives you the knowledge, baseline measurements, and tools to be proactive about your lymphatic health. If you are preparing for breast cancer surgery or have recently completed cancer treatment, ask your healthcare provider about a referral for a lymphedema evaluation.