@A MyBCTeam Member, my mom is coming to Hawaii with us and this time I insisted that she wears a sleeve. She's flown many times without it, but she's getting older and like you say, why risk it?
My breast surgeon told I had to wear a sleeve with flying because of the rise in elevation.
I wear mine when I work out and when I fly. I also bought a gauntlet for my hand. Remember to wear gloves when you clean or do dishes, a small cut can also cause it.
@A MyBCTeam Member,
I feel like you sometimes. LIFE can be annoying! You definitely want to get a sleeve if you are flying somewhere. Some people like my mother did find without it, but up in the elevation, our risk of getting lymphedema is much higher. It doesn't matter how long you haven't seen your doctor. You are still their patient. If you are flying or skiing you have a very good reason to call your BS and ask for the prescription.
I just went to a lymphedema class and they said only 40% will get lymphedema. They also said that you can get it right after surgery or 20 years after surgery. Also, not all lymphedema patients have their lymph nodes removed. It could be caused from radiation. They key is to excerise it. On YouTube there are some great videos on how to drain your lymphatic system.