What Is Lymphedema?

Learn about lymphedema after cancer surgery, early warning signs to watch for, and how specialized lymphedema therapy at Virtua can help reduce swelling.

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Updated September 16, 2026

By Leighanna Evans, MSOTR/L, CLT-LANA, Certified Lymphedema Therapist and Occupational Therapist, Virtua Samson Cancer Center

If you or a loved one is undergoing treatment for breast cancer or another condition that involves surgery or radiation, you may have heard your care team mention lymphedema.

While swelling after an injury or surgery is a natural part of the body’s healing response, persistent swelling that doesn't go away requires specialized attention. Understanding what lymphedema is and how to spot its earliest signs can help you manage the condition effectively and maintain your quality of life.

What is lymphedema and what causes it?

Lymphedema is a chronic buildup of fluid that causes swelling, most commonly in the arms or legs, though it can also affect your chest, trunk, neck, or groin. Lymphedema can be mild, moderate, or severe.

Your lymphatic system is a vital part of your immune system. It acts as a drainage network, filtering out waste and pathogens through your lymph nodes and carrying a protein-rich fluid (lymph) back into your bloodstream.

Damage, removal, or scarring of lymph nodes or vessels during medical treatment can obstruct fluid flow. When this happens, fluid accumulates in the surrounding tissues, leading to chronic swelling.

Common risk factors

While lymphedema can stem from vascular issues, trauma, or genetic conditions, it's most frequently triggered by cancer treatments, including:

Lymph node surgery: Procedures like axillary lymph node dissection or sentinel lymph node biopsy during breast cancer surgery can alter normal lymphatic drainage.
Radiation therapy: Radiation can cause tissue scarring that restricts lymph channels.

It's important to note that not everyone who undergoes surgery or radiation will develop lymphedema. It can develop immediately after treatment, or months to years later.

Early warning signs and symptoms

Recognizing lymphedema early allows for faster intervention and better long-term management. Early symptoms are often mildly uncomfortable before visible swelling occurs.

Contact your physician or care team if you notice any of the following on your surgical or treated side:

Visible swelling or puffiness: Noticeable fluid buildup in the hand, arm, breast, chest wall, or leg.
Sensation of heaviness or fullness: Your arm, leg, or chest feels heavy, tight, or unusually tired.
Clothing or jewelry feels snug: Rings, bracelets, wristwatches, or clothing sleeves feel tighter than usual, or leave deep indentation marks on your skin.
Reduced flexibility: Stiffness or difficulty moving parts of your arm or leg.
Skin texture changes: Skin that feels firm, tight, thick, or appears stretched.

How is lymphedema diagnosed and treated?

While lymphedema is a long-term condition, it's highly treatable. With appropriate care, you can significantly reduce and manage swelling.

Virtua Health certified lymphedema therapists (CLTs) specialize in preventing and treating lymphedema. Virtua surgeons also provide advanced surgical treatments when needed.

Lymphedema treatment techniques are individualized and may include:

Manual lymphatic drainage
Compression bandaging and/or compression garments
Tailored exercises to reduce swelling and improve lymphatic flow
Scar tissue and soft tissue mobilization

Daily management tips for reducing your lymphedema risk

If you're at risk for or currently managing lymphedema, simple daily habits can help protect your skin and maintain proper fluid movement:

Safeguard your skin: Keep your skin clean, hydrated, and free of cuts. Wear gloves when gardening or washing dishes, use insect repellent, and apply sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
Exercise safely: Moving your muscles promotes lymphatic fluid flow, and studies strongly support strength training and aerobic exercise for individuals with lymphedema or at risk for it. Work with a physical/occupational therapist to build a safe, gradual routine.
Avoid extreme heat: Saunas, hot tubs, and heating pads can increase blood flow and worsen fluid buildup in compromised areas.
Avoid trauma to the affected body part(s): Protect the affected area from injury, irritation, and excessive pressure. Avoid carrying heavy purses or bags with straps that place prolonged pressure on the affected shoulder or arm and avoid wearing tight jewelry or clothing that may restrict circulation or lymphatic flow.
Maintain a healthy weight: Excess body weight places pressure on the lymphatic vessels, making it harder for lymph fluid to drain effectively.
Blood pressures and needle sticks: Current evidence doesn't show that blood pressure measurements or needle sticks cause lymphedema. However, individuals who have had an axillary lymph node dissection are generally advised to use the unaffected arm for blood pressure readings, blood draws, IVs, injections, and vaccinations whenever possible. For individuals who have only had sentinel lymph node biopsy, these procedures are generally considered safe in the affected arm.
Air travel: Research hasn't consistently shown that air travel increases the risk of developing lymphedema. However, air travel may contribute to fluid retention due to cabin pressure changes and prolonged periods of inactivity. Stay well hydrated, move and stretch regularly during flights, and avoid carrying heavy luggage with the affected limb. Individuals who have had an axillary lymph node dissection may be advised to wear a properly fitted compression sleeve during air travel, particularly on longer flights. Consult your lymphedema therapist or health care provider for individualized recommendations.

Get comprehensive lymphedema care at Virtua Health

You don't have to navigate lymphedema alone. Virtua’s multidisciplinary team of breast surgeons, medical oncologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and certified lymphedema specialists works together to support your recovery every step of the way.

Find a Virtua Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation location near you.