Breast Cancer & Lymph Node Biopsy Wellness Suggestions

The "sampling” or “biopsy” of the lymph nodes under the arm is done for any breast cancer surgery as well as some preventative breast surgery. This is when the “gate-keeper” or “first draining” lymph nodes of the breast are taken from under the arm, and this helps the cancer doctors determine the treatments you need after surgery. Even thought he term is “biopsy,” we take the entire lymph node, and try to get at least two, but that leaves 20-40 more under the arm to work for the patient. “Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy” is not to be confused with Axillary (underarm) Lymph Node Dissection. “Axillary Lymph Node Dissection” is done less and less often, takes ALL of the lymph nodes under the arm, and leaves behind a lot more chronic issues after surgery than the “biopsy” does.

The following are suggestions are for biopsy only.

• Ice to the underarm for at least 3 days after surgery

• Compression under the arm with a rolled up kitchen towel for 3 days after surgery

• Arrange for lymph massages of that arm after surgery

• Take the Percuro the surgery healing supplement for healing an area that is often sweaty and can take longer to heal

• Melatonin for sleep and anxiety

• Electrolyte drink (clear with zero sediment or particles) the morning of surgery, being finished 2 hours before check-in at the surgery center

• Acupuncture for lymph system health

• Self compassion journaling or meditations

Read general Surgical Wellness Suggestions here to care for the whole of you!

Contact me at info@centerforholisticsurgery.com and we can find a time to chat about how I can support you to your best surgical health.