What precautions do you need to take post surgery to avoid lymphedema?
Avoid injury to the operated side arm. It’s easier said than done as patients where the dominant hand side is operated are likely to have small cuts and bruise while doing their daily works. These cuts and bruises tend to increase the rate of infection and lymphedema Although the scientific evidence supporting it is less but its advised to not use the operated side hand for blood tests or even BP measurement as the pressure applied can dmage the superficial lymphatics thereby increasing lymphedema See your doctor if you notice any change in size/ girth of the arm