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.

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

Answers (5)