Is this lymphedema???

[KSB]

I had surgery one week ago --- lumpectomy and axillary node dissection.  14 nodes were removed.  Tumor (9.5 mm) was in accessory breast tissue in axillary tail of breast under arm.  I developed seroma and had 135 cc of fluid removed from under arm one week post surgery.  I have very slight swelling/puffiness of arm between elbow and wrist (right below elbow & half way between elbow and wrist).  It is only noticable to me.  When measured, appears to be ~1/16-1/8 inch different from other arm. Underarm and inside of top of arm are very sore.  Rest of arm is sore in spots.  Is this lymphedema?  or swelling from the surgery?  or irritation to tendon from surgery position?  or irritation from arm exercises? I am keeping arm elevated at night and doing arm exercises 2x per day.  Is there anything else I should be doing??

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear ksb:  Given your description of the situation, it sounds like this could well be post-operative.  The other thing to keep in mind is that our bodies are rarely symetrical. It is too early to determine that this is lymphedema. It sounds as though you are doing all the right things.  You could also try wrapping an ace bandage around the arm (do not cut off the circulation) to minimize swelling.  The most important thing you can do at this stage is to avoid injury to that arm.