My second lumpectomy included removal of 4 lymph nodes. Nodes all clear. And clear margins on lumpectomy. Three days later met with surgeon & everything was OK. He looked at incisions and all was healing nicely but there was fluid at the site of the node removal. He thought we should just wait it out. But said it could be aspirated with a needle. Now a week later it seems to be worse. More fluid. Anyone have similar experience? Does this have to do with node removal? Should I expect this to be on ongoing problem? Think it might lead to edema in my arm?
Other than that, no problems. No real pain. Some discomfort but even that was minor. Returned to work the Monday after surgery which was on the prior Thursday. Riding the bike trainer in the garage but have not been outdoors on the bicycle yet thanks to snow!

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Kathy
aka smiley
In God We Trust
What you may have is a seroma which is fluid collection at the site of surgery, it is not lymphedema ( too soon). If you become uncomfortable they can remove the fluid, it is usually done in the office with a local, there is no harm letting the fluid collect. Glad to hear all your pathology was good, and it the bigger scheme it is more important
Smiley - 27 Dec 2004 12:40 GMT
Dear Guess,
Thank you for easing my concerns. I'll call doc's nurse today just to let them know what is going on but unless they are concerned will just let it ride. I've seen enough needles recently to last awhile longer. smile

Signature
Kathy
aka smiley
In God We Trust
What you may have is a seroma which is fluid collection at the site of surgery, it is not lymphedema ( too soon). If you become uncomfortable they can remove the fluid, it is usually done in the office with a local, there is no harm letting the fluid collect. Glad to hear all your pathology was good, and it the bigger scheme it is more important