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Our team of compassionate, highly trained breast specialists and surgeons provides comprehensive treatment options tailored to your individual needs. We’re here to guide you with expertise, respect, and care — every step of the way.
Texas Oncology is a leader in groundbreaking cancer research and clinical trials in Texas, paving the way for new breakthroughs in cancer care.
Lymphedema screening and diagnosis are important parts of recovery after breast cancer surgery. At Texas Oncology, we use advanced tools to track small fluid changes, helping to detect and manage lymphedema early. Our team is here to support you with expert monitoring and personalized care.
All patients undergoing breast cancer surgery should consider lymphedema screening to detect lymphedema in its early stages. The Lymphedema Prevention Program at Texas Oncology aims to reduce a patient’s risk of developing lifelong lymphedema through screening and early detection — with the goal of preventing it from getting worse.
To screen for lymphedema, your care team will measure the fluid status and tissue composition in your arms and legs before surgery (to establish a baseline). This evaluation takes place every 3-6 months after surgery and continues for up to 5 years, and annually thereafter. By tracking small changes in an extremity over time, your doctor can identify lymphedema in its earliest stages and prescribe treatments to manage its progression.
In the past, it was challenging to detect and diagnose breast cancer-related lymphedema other than by observing swelling. A process called bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), which measures the body’s resistance to a weak electrical current, now allows physicians to measure lymph fluid changes. From this test, doctors calculate a lymphedema index (L-DEX) ratio to assist with detection and proper diagnosis.
Doctors use the following staging system to determine how severe lymphedema is:
Stage 0
There is no visible swelling, but the area may feel heavy, full, or tight. This stage is reversible.
Stage I (Mild)
Swelling is noticeable, and the area might also feel heavy, full, or tight. If the arms or legs are affected, elevating them often reduces the swelling. Lymphedema is typically reversible at this stage.
Stage II (Moderate)
Swelling is more pronounced than in Stage I. Elevating the arm or leg no longer relieves the swelling. Symptoms are more severe and may still be reversible if addressed early.
Stage III (Severe)
There is significant swelling that can interfere with self-care and daily activities. The skin may become dry, thickened, or discolored and may leak fluid or develop blisters. This stage is usually not reversible.
Common treatments for lymphedema include:
CDT is the gold standard of care, combining manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), compression bandaging, skin care education, and therapeutic exercise.
MLD is a gentle massage that moves lymph fluid to healthy areas for drainage.
Compression therapy employs custom-fitted garments or multilayered bandages designed to help prevent fluid buildup and maintain results.
Low-intensity exercises promote muscle pumping to move lymph fluid and improve mobility.
Moisturizing and protecting your skin helps prevent infections that could worsen swelling.
With IPC, a machine inflates a sleeve to apply pressure and move fluid when garments or MLD aren't enough.
Your care team will teach you self-MLD, compression use, exercise, and skin care for long-term maintenance.
For severe cases of lymphedema, procedures include lymphatic bypass, liposuction to remove fat buildup, or vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT).
Addressing obesity can reduce lymphedema related to cancer.
Detecting lymphedema early and getting tailored therapy from trained providers offer the best chance of controlling the condition and preserving your quality of life.
Unfortunately, the lymphatic system can’t repair itself. Once an area has been damaged from surgery, radiation, or trauma, it doesn’t heal on its own.
While lymphedema can be managed, it’s a lifelong condition. If not treated, the protein-rich lymphatic fluid is a breeding ground for bacteria and infections that can become serious. Lymphedema tends to worsen over time without treatment.
Approximately 1 in 5 women treated for breast cancer will go on to develop lymphedema. The likelihood increases with the amount of breast tissue removed, the number of lymph nodes removed, and the number and extent of radiation treatments. That’s why it’s important for breast cancer patients to understand the symptoms and how they can reduce their risk.
At Texas Oncology, we strive to provide affordable care. That includes accepting a wide range of insurances. We accept most insurance plans and work with other insurance companies to establish coverage for patients whenever possible.
Trusted expertise
Our specialists trained at leading institutions across the country. They bring their extensive knowledge and experience to each patient.
Focused on you
Your care goes beyond checklists. We build meaningful connections, so you feel seen, heard, and supported — every step of the way.
Experts close to home
We make it as easy as possible to access the care you need. With locations across the state, you are likely to find a provider near where you live and work.
There are 2 types of lymphedema:
Primary lymphedema
Some people are born with a genetic mutation that causes their lymphatic system not to form properly. This is called primary lymphedema. Types of this mutation can cause lymphedema that is present at birth or that can begin at puberty or in a person’s 30s.
Secondary lymphedema
Secondary lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system becomes injured or obstructed. Most cases of secondary lymphedema in developed countries, such as the U.S., are caused by radiation treatments or the removal of lymph nodes during surgery to treat cancer.
Lymphedema is caused by a blockage of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system drains excess fluid from tissues and helps fight infections. It runs throughout your body and consists of:
● Lymph vessels that carry a clear fluid called lymph
● Lymph nodes that filter waste products, viruses, and bacteria
During breast cancer surgery, your doctor may remove one or more lymph nodes. This disrupts the network of vessels and prevents lymph drainage. Radiation therapy can also damage lymph nodes, causing lymph to back up.
Although lymphedema is not preventable, you can lower your risk of developing this condition after breast cancer treatment by avoiding, or at least minimizing, the following:
● Trauma to the breast and arm on the affected side
● Cuticle injuries during manicures
● Saunas or other extreme heat
● Carrying heavy shoulder strap handbags on the treated side
● Sun exposure and minor cuts or abrasions by using sunscreen and gloves
● Weight gain, which can also contribute to the chances of breast cancer recurrence
● Tight jewelry or clothes with elastic bands
Patients diagnosed with lymphedema are encouraged to speak with their doctor on which available treatment options may be ideal in managing their specific side effects.
The most common symptom of lymphedema is a heavy feeling in the arm on the side where breast cancer was treated. Other signs in the affected arm include:
● Swelling that may make your rings, watch, or clothes feel tight
● Skin discoloration, dryness, or thickening
● Tingling, numbness, aches, or pain
● Temperature change in the affected area
Lymphedema usually develops within 24 months after surgery or cancer treatment. However, in some cases, lymphedema can occur several years after surgery or treatment. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
Lymphedema screening and diagnosis are important parts of recovery after breast cancer surgery. At Texas Oncology, we use advanced tools to track small fluid changes, helping to detect and manage lymphedema early. Our team is here to support you with expert monitoring and personalized care.
All patients undergoing breast cancer surgery should consider lymphedema screening to detect lymphedema in its early stages. The Lymphedema Prevention Program at Texas Oncology aims to reduce a patient’s risk of developing lifelong lymphedema through screening and early detection — with the goal of preventing it from getting worse.
To screen for lymphedema, your care team will measure the fluid status and tissue composition in your arms and legs before surgery (to establish a baseline). This evaluation takes place every 3-6 months after surgery and continues for up to 5 years, and annually thereafter. By tracking small changes in an extremity over time, your doctor can identify lymphedema in its earliest stages and prescribe treatments to manage its progression.
In the past, it was challenging to detect and diagnose breast cancer-related lymphedema other than by observing swelling. A process called bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), which measures the body’s resistance to a weak electrical current, now allows physicians to measure lymph fluid changes. From this test, doctors calculate a lymphedema index (L-DEX) ratio to assist with detection and proper diagnosis.
Doctors use the following staging system to determine how severe lymphedema is:
Stage 0
There is no visible swelling, but the area may feel heavy, full, or tight. This stage is reversible.
Stage I (Mild)
Swelling is noticeable, and the area might also feel heavy, full, or tight. If the arms or legs are affected, elevating them often reduces the swelling. Lymphedema is typically reversible at this stage.
Stage II (Moderate)
Swelling is more pronounced than in Stage I. Elevating the arm or leg no longer relieves the swelling. Symptoms are more severe and may still be reversible if addressed early.
Stage III (Severe)
There is significant swelling that can interfere with self-care and daily activities. The skin may become dry, thickened, or discolored and may leak fluid or develop blisters. This stage is usually not reversible.
Common treatments for lymphedema include:
CDT is the gold standard of care, combining manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), compression bandaging, skin care education, and therapeutic exercise.
MLD is a gentle massage that moves lymph fluid to healthy areas for drainage.
Compression therapy employs custom-fitted garments or multilayered bandages designed to help prevent fluid buildup and maintain results.
Low-intensity exercises promote muscle pumping to move lymph fluid and improve mobility.
Moisturizing and protecting your skin helps prevent infections that could worsen swelling.
With IPC, a machine inflates a sleeve to apply pressure and move fluid when garments or MLD aren't enough.
Your care team will teach you self-MLD, compression use, exercise, and skin care for long-term maintenance.
For severe cases of lymphedema, procedures include lymphatic bypass, liposuction to remove fat buildup, or vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT).
Addressing obesity can reduce lymphedema related to cancer.
Detecting lymphedema early and getting tailored therapy from trained providers offer the best chance of controlling the condition and preserving your quality of life.
Unfortunately, the lymphatic system can’t repair itself. Once an area has been damaged from surgery, radiation, or trauma, it doesn’t heal on its own.
While lymphedema can be managed, it’s a lifelong condition. If not treated, the protein-rich lymphatic fluid is a breeding ground for bacteria and infections that can become serious. Lymphedema tends to worsen over time without treatment.
Approximately 1 in 5 women treated for breast cancer will go on to develop lymphedema. The likelihood increases with the amount of breast tissue removed, the number of lymph nodes removed, and the number and extent of radiation treatments. That’s why it’s important for breast cancer patients to understand the symptoms and how they can reduce their risk.
At Texas Oncology, we strive to provide affordable care. That includes accepting a wide range of insurances. We accept most insurance plans and work with other insurance companies to establish coverage for patients whenever possible.
Trusted expertise
Our specialists trained at leading institutions across the country. They bring their extensive knowledge and experience to each patient.
Focused on you
Your care goes beyond checklists. We build meaningful connections, so you feel seen, heard, and supported — every step of the way.
Experts close to home
We make it as easy as possible to access the care you need. With locations across the state, you are likely to find a provider near where you live and work.
