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  • Hi everyone!  I'm new to this community, although I'm not new to lymphedema.  I am a breast cancer

    survivor of almost 10 years!  In the spring of 2000, while having radiation treatment, I complained to

    my radiologist's nurse about swelling in my right arm and hand.  She immediately gave me the

    name of a lymphedema therapist who did MLD and wrapping.  After 10 years, I'm still struggling

    with it.  I started some laser treatments last summer with a therapist here in St. Louis, MO, and

    have seen a lot of improvement in the underlying tissue, which had become rather hard.  I guess

    I keep hoping they'll find a "cure".  I've read a little about the surgical procedures, and am very

    interested in knowing more about it.  So if anyone has any knowledge or experience with surgery

    to help the lymphedema, please let me know.  Also, I have recently lost a lot of weight and my arm

    is 5 inches smaller around than it used to be.  But I have a lot of extra skin, so my arm seems to

    be collecting fluid.  I wonder if cosmetic surgery  would be helpful?  Would cosmetic surgery be

    dangerous in an arm with lymphedema?  So many questions, so few answers.

     

    Anyway, I'm glad to find all of you.

    Sincerely,

    Patrice in St. Louis, MO

3 comments
  • Linda Malmberg
    Linda Malmberg Hi Patrice! I read your post with interest because I am also in the St. Louis area. I want to invite you to our monthly Lymphedema Support Group. You might find it helpful to meet other patients with lymphedema and to speak with our certified...  more
    April 13, 2009 - Report
  • Steve Norton
    Steve Norton Hi Patrice,

    Welcome and please join the group " A place fro people with lymphedema" I will be spending time posting comments frequently and would love to help you. In short please do not have excess skin removed. Congratulations on the weight loss....  more
    April 14, 2009 - Report
  • Maria Ferris
    Maria Ferris Hi... am a cancer survivor of 10 years and have struggled with Lymphadema since the beginning. After years of mld , I have finally gotten it under control. I wrap every single night ( no exeptions) and I wear a heavy compression sleeve and hand glove...  more
    April 14, 2009 - Report