[Pam P]

Yes. Lymphedema can develop months and years later. I have right arm lymphedema which started about 2 years after my mastectomy. Seeing a good therapist who is specialized in the field is essential. I have learned so much in how to maintain my arm, treat it, tricks and tips. I get therapy (MLD manual lymph drainage) every now and then. In the beginning I did some intense sessions daily for a week. I was measured and fitted for a compression sleeve which I wear everyday. I was taught how to bandage at night and did that regularly for years. That's the best treatment they'll tell you. I now wear another garment at night called an arm assist. It's not as good as bandaging but it works well for my needs. You'll do fine - it can seem overwhelming at first, but becomes routine and can be easy to maintain and hopefully improve quickly from what you are seeing now. there have been several threads on this site on lymphedema so if you do a search you'll find more info from others. Pam