What causes Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is swelling caused by a buildup of lymph fluid, often resulting from blockages in the lymphatic system.
Breast cancer-related lymphedema
Approximately 20% of women will experience lymphedema following breast cancer treatment.
Causes of lymphedema
Both the surgical removal of lymph nodes and radiation therapy are primary causes of lymphedema in breast cancer patients.
New guidelines
Women over 70 with small hormone receptorpositive (HR+) tumors may consider omitting sentinel lymph node biopsy to reduce risk.
SLYMPHA is a cutting-edge, risk-reducing procedure designed to prevent lymphedema. This advanced method has shown significant success in clinical settings, offering hope and improved quality of life for patients at risk. For more detailed information, visit the Friedman Center for Lymphedema Research and Treatment’s website at friedmancenter.org/lymphedema-overview/preventing-lymphedema.
Dr. Elleson and the team at Regional Breast Care are committed to providing you with the highest quality of care. Please contact our office if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Kelly Elleson, Breast Surgeon
Dr. Kelly Elleson, a fellowship-trained breast surgeon at Regional Breast Care within the GenesisCare network, brings advanced expertise in lymphedema prevention to patients in Fort Myers. Having completed specialized training at Moffitt Cancer Center in breast surgery and surgical oncology research, she treats the full spectrum of breast disease and is the only local surgeon offering SLYMPHA - a lymphovenous bypass technique that significantly reduces the risk of lymphedema.