Can I get liposuction on my arms or axillary area if I had 2 lymph nodes removed in my armpit for breast cancer?

Question

I am not supposed to have my blood drawn or blood pressure taken on that arm because of increased risk of lymphedema. But a doctor wants to liposuction my axillary area instead which is close to where my nodes were taken. Will arm or axillary liposuction increase my risk for lymphedema? Thank you.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Because of the increased risk for lymphedema, I would not recommend liposuction of the axillary area.  Nor would I recommend any other type of skin tightening in the area.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

With an axillary lymph node dissection you are at risk for Lymphedema.  I would suggest Kybella as an alternative.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Patients who have undergone axillary node sampling or full dissection are at higher risk of developing lymphedema at baseline.The presence of lymphedema is an absolute contraindication to liposuction of the axilla or upper extremity. Many surgeons will avoid this in the setting of a previous full axillary dissection as well (even without associated lymphedema). Lymph node sampling will place you at greater risk of developing lymphedema but is not an absolute contraindication.In my practice, I typically shy away from liposuction in this population as the risk often outweighs the benefit. There are numerous non-invasive options which while not necessarily as effective as formal liposuction can help without the added risk.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

I think you will be at higher risks of getting lymphedema due to your history of lymph node surgery. You should discuss this more carefully with your doctor or getting second opinion. Best wishes, Dr. ALDO

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I will not recommend you to have lipo in scenario like this. You have a high chance of developing lympedema.

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question, carrotcakes.
You already said that you have  increased risk of lymphedema, that’s why your doctor is prohibiting you to even have blood pressure taken on that arm. In that case, liposuction will definitely put you at greater risk for lymphedema. 
Moreover, you’ll only be able to get liposuction if you’re completely healthy and you’re not suffering from any chronic or life-threatening diseases.
I suggest you consult another reputable and board-certified plastic surgeon to know your other options for arm lipo. There are several non-surgical alternatives that might be better suited for you, although the results will probably be not as good as an arm lipo. Still, your safety should be the top priority.
Best of luck!

Can I get liposuction on my arms or axillary area if I had 2 lymph nodes removed in my armpit for breast cancer?

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