Ouch

I had a follow-up appointment with the surgeon today. The incisions from surgery are healing fine; but I am having some problems with pain that limits the range of motion of my left arm and fluid retention at the surgical site. This is not unusual when lymph nodes have been removed, but somehow knowing that doesn't really make me feel better about it.

The doctor assigned me some exercises to do at home and wants me to start physical therapy as soon as possible. 

If the fluid does not absorb naturally over the next two weeks, however, the doctor will have to remove it via a needle/syringe. I fervently hope that is not necessary, because despite assurances that a local anesthetic will prevent the process from being painful, I remember all too well that was not the case in some of the other procedures I've had. 

So, the threat of yet another needle being jammed into my breast should keep me motivated to do those exercises!

I also learned that radiation treatment cannot begin until this excess fluid is gone, because the fluid can cause scar tissue to form that will permanently affect my arm's range of motion.

Seems like nothing in cancer treatment ever goes without a hitch of some kind.