Can someone have arm Lipo if they have had axillary lymph node dissection?

The lymph system is intimately involved in fluid clearance with the axilla being the major reservoir for drainage of the upper extremity. Patients who have had some degree of node sampling in this area are at higher risk of swelling or lymphedema. However, it is important to understand the specifics of the operations performed. Lymph node sampling usually involves less extensive dissection i.e. less damage to the lymphatic drainage (vs. axillary dissection). With this in mind, more dissection equals higher risk of post op swelling (which may or may not be persistent).This decision to operate is generally operator dependent. I would avoid liposuction in the setting of an axillary dissection. For patients who have undergone sentinel lymph node sampling, I would have to mask the decision on a case by case basis. These patients should be aware that their risk profile is higher.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon.

If you had lymph nodes removed it's likely that you have lymphedema and not true fat in the area, so the treatment is not liposuction.  If you have true fat, swelling post can be way worse with your history.  Please see a vascular physician for an evaluation.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Hello and thank you for your question.   First, speak with your surgeon and ask his/her opinion.  If you only had a sentinel node dissection, then I have safely performed liposuction of the arm in patients before.  In my practice, I do not perform liposuction of the arm if a formal axillary node dissection has been performed.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon