Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema Versus Post Surgery Edema
What is Edema? Edema is a condition characterized by an excess of watery fluid collecting in the cavities or tissues of the body. There are situations where it is hard to determine whether you have lymphedema or post-surgery edema. Post Surgery Edema Edema (swelling) after breast surgery can occur for several reasons, and it's often associated with breast cancer surgery. Post surgical edema after mastectomy, implants, or flap procedures is not lymphedema. Post surgical edema is the body's natural healing response to a disruption in the body, skin and tissues. What Causes Edema After Breast Surgery? The primary causes of edema after breast surgery are as follows: Lymphatic System Damage Breast surgery, particularly procedures like mastectomy or lymph node dissection, can disrupt the lymphatic system in the breast and surrounding…