Cancer-Related Lymphatic Care · NYC Specialists
Breast Cancer Lymphedema
Treatment in New York City
CLT-certified Complete Decongestive Therapy for lymphedema following breast cancer surgery and radiation — treating the arm, breast, and trunk at Thera PT & OT in Midtown Manhattan.
Book a Free Consultation Our ApproachBreast Cancer–Related Lymphedema
Breast cancer–related lymphedema develops when surgery or radiation damages the lymphatic network of the arm, breast, and trunk. Axillary lymph node dissection carries an estimated 20% lifetime risk of arm lymphedema; sentinel lymph node biopsy carries a lower but not negligible risk; and radiation to axillary, supraclavicular, or internal mammary nodes further increases risk — independently and in combination with surgery.
Lymphedema can develop weeks, months, or years after treatment and presents across three distinct anatomical regions, each requiring different MLD pathways and compression strategies.
No referral required. New York State allows direct access to physical and occupational therapy. You do not need to wait for a physician script to begin lymphedema care.
Arm, Breast & Truncal Lymphedema
The most recognized presentation
Swelling in the arm, forearm, and hand on the side of surgery from disrupted axillary drainage. May be accompanied by heaviness, aching, and reduced grip.
Often underrecognized
Firmness, fullness, or visible swelling in the remaining breast or chest wall after mastectomy or lumpectomy with radiation. Requires assessment to distinguish from other post-treatment tissue changes.
Frequently missed
Soft, puffy tissue along the lateral trunk, below the axilla, and toward the back. Does not produce limb swelling and is often undiagnosed — but responds well to adapted MLD and truncal compression.
Our Treatment Approach
Comprehensive Lymphedema Evaluation
Limb and truncal measurements, skin and tissue assessment, ISL staging, range of motion evaluation, and detailed review of your surgical and radiation history. Individualized treatment plan developed for your specific region(s) of involvement.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Certified MLD redirects lymph fluid from congested regions to functioning lymph node basins via alternative drainage pathways mapped to your specific lymphedema presentation. Drainage routes for breast and truncal lymphedema require specific CLT training distinct from arm lymphedema protocols.
Compression Therapy
Multi-layer bandaging during intensive treatment phases. Compression sleeve and gauntlet fitting for arm lymphedema; specialized foam, chip bags, and custom garments for breast and truncal involvement. Precise measurements and individualized garment recommendations.
Exercise & Self-Management
Progressive therapeutic exercise — including our Strength After Breast Cancer program — supports lymphatic flow and is safe at all stages. Comprehensive self-management education for long-term control: self-bandaging, home drainage, skin care, infection prevention, and flare management.
Breast cancer lymphedema is manageable with consistent, CLT-certified care. Free consultations available.
Book a Free ConsultationFull Breast Rehab ProgramSpecialist Care in Midtown Manhattan
Our practice specializes in breast rehabilitation and lymphedema care. We coordinate with breast surgeons, oncologists, and radiation oncologists throughout New York City. See our full breast cancer rehabilitation program for the complete scope of services we offer.
115 West 30th Street, Suite 502B
New York, NY 10001
Near Penn Station · 1/2/3 at 34th St–Penn · B/D/F/M/N/Q/R/W at 34th St–Herald Square
(917) 319-4492
info@thera-rehab.com
Monday – Friday · 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Frequently Asked Questions
I had a sentinel node biopsy, not a full dissection. Am I still at risk for lymphedema?
Yes. Sentinel lymph node biopsy carries an estimated 5–7% risk of arm lymphedema compared to approximately 20% with axillary lymph node dissection. Combined with axillary radiation, risk is somewhat higher. A consultation with a CLT can establish your baseline and clarify a monitoring plan appropriate to your surgery.
My arm swelling started two years after my mastectomy. Is it too late for therapy?
No. Lymphedema can develop at any point after treatment. Earlier intervention is associated with better outcomes, but established lymphedema — even years in — can be meaningfully improved with appropriate CDT. We see many patients who are years out from treatment.
What is truncal lymphedema and how is it different from arm swelling?
Truncal lymphedema is fluid accumulation in the lateral trunk — the tissue along the side of the body under the axilla and toward the back — rather than in the arm. It can occur independently of arm swelling and is frequently undiagnosed. Our evaluation specifically assesses for it.
Expert breast cancer lymphedema care in Midtown Manhattan. Our certified team is ready.
Contact Our TeamBook an Appointment