Tattoos after axillary clearance (Risk of Lymphedema)

Hi Lauramarie,

It's Lisa from the Policy Team. You might already have, but we'd suggest that it would be best for you to speak to your specialist about whether there would be a risk of lymphoedema.

Best wishes,
Lisa

I haven't - I'll have a look at some around me for prevention, regardless of my level or risk. No harm in being cautious!

Thanks - I'm not concerned about radio as this won't affect the same area but that's an interesting point re. MRIs. I haven't heard of this being an issue - I'll have to look into this.

Thanks but I'm actually wondering about the risk of Lymphedema following a tattoo.

Thanks for the suggestion Jane, I'll check them out!

Hi Lauramaria, that's a really interesting question because although it's sensible to avoid tattooing your left arm where you had your axillary clearance, I'm not sure how risky it would be in terms of getting lymphodema on your chest / trunk, which can occasionally happen. It might be worth contacting somewhere like Macquarie University Hospital in Sydney as they run a well-regarded lymphodema clinic and carry out research that might help answer your question or at least give you some guidance as to what you need to think about. Would love to hear if you get any feedback as this would be useful for lots of other ladies who are in similar situations. Jane xx  

Don't have any experience with tattoos but I got a one page ex cerise sheet after surgery and from memory there were 4 or 5 different exercises with my arms that I did to avoid lymphodema. Best wishes

Hi Lauramaria,I think you raise some interesting questions and I don't think BCNA has any fact sheets on the tattoo topic.Radiation could be an issue.I've also read that MRI's aren't accurate over tattooed areas but I need to research this more.I had a full node clearance back in 2003 and while I don't get lymphoedema in my arm,I do get abit under the arm.If I overdo it with activities like sweeping or washing floors etc then my arm can ache abit.I'm careful with my arm and gently massage it most days but there is no guarantee.Hope all goes ok for you.Tonya xx

Hi Lauramaria, check out Darwin City Tattoos facebook page.  If you scroll down a bit you will find a photo of lady who had her chest tattooed after a double mastectomy.  It is awesome.  Maureen

Hi, have you been referred to a lymphodema physiotherapist?  I have and have found her very helpful with preventative exercises and ongoing monitoring as I am at risk of lymphodema due to a pre-existing condition.

Good luck!