post lumpectomy pain

[azile]

I was diagnosed with DCIS Comedo grade 3 following a lumpectomy with no lymph node removal on October 26. I recovered well, and was without symptoms until about a week ago when I began experiencing tenderness in the surgical site, and in the associated armpit. I am due to see  an oncologist in another week, but in the meantime, should I be concerned about this tenderness and slight ache? Does lymphodema ever occur after  lumpectomys without lymph node removal?

Thank you!

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear azile:  Lymphedema refers to swelling in an arm or leg caused by excess fluid collection.  This collection of fluid is due to a disruption in the normal lymphatic drainage which may occur following surgery to remove lymph nodes or radiation therapy to the lymph nodes.   A lumpectomy alone would not likely cause a problem such as lymphedema, but lymph node enlargement with tenderness can occur following breast surgery or in the presence of an infection.  You may want to  bring your symptoms to the attention of your oncologist or your breast surgeon..