lymphedema

I had a lumpectomy August of '09, followed by chemo and now radiation.  My lymp nodes were negative, but I have recently had symptoms of lymphedema.  Is that possible with only having a lymph node biopsy at the time of my breast surgery?  I am very distressed, as I thought I was home free from that since my lymph nodes were negative and I only had the sentinel node and one more removed for biopsy.  Someone told me there is a surgery for lymphedema.  Are you familiar with that?  Also, I feel a knottiness right at the incision site where he did the lymph node biopsy.  What could that be?

[japdip]

Whether the nodes are negative or positive has nothing to do with the possible development of Lymphedema. It's the interferrence with the lymphatic system that makes the difference and having only 1 node removed can be the cause. There is NO surgery for Lymphedema but you should secure an appointment with a Physical Therapist  who is specially trained in the treatment methods. The earlier you get treatment the better the chance of improvement. This may occur at any time after surgery and often does; even years later. You are never "home free' from the chance of developing Lymphedema. You don't say what symptoms you have but you should see a Therapist as soon as possible; most of the treatment can be taught and done at home.    Regards .....