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Can one get cording again 5 years after lumpectomy??? Can one get cording at any time years later after BC surgery or after radiation or ins

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Rochester, NY

Google answer.

“Yes, you can absolutely get breast and arm cording (Axillary Web Syndrome) again, even 5 years after your lumpectomy.

Cording is essentially the inflammation, thickening, and scarring of lymph vessels beneath the skin, and it can linger, resolve, and recur long after your initial surgery.

Why Cording Returns

Cording often flares up unexpectedly. Triggers for late-onset or recurring cording include:Inflammatory Triggers: Minor strains, repetitive heavy lifting, or… read more

May 29 (edited)
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A MyBCTeam Member

It's a good thing we have this site, or else how would we know what these things are, the doctors don't offer info unless you know what to ask them .

May 30
MyBCTeam

Yes, cording (Axillary Web Syndrome or AWS) can absolutely return years after a lumpectomy. It happens when connective tissue under the arm becomes inflamed and hardened, and it can develop — or come back — days, months, or even years after breast cancer surgery.

It's worth knowing that cording can also occur after Show Full Answer

Yes, cording (Axillary Web Syndrome or AWS) can absolutely return years after a lumpectomy. It happens when connective tissue under the arm becomes inflamed and hardened, and it can develop — or come back — days, months, or even years after breast cancer surgery.

It's worth knowing that cording can also occur after lumpectomy, not just lymph node removal surgeries. The good news is that cording is very manageable. Here are some approaches that can help:

- Physical therapy — A therapist can use manual techniques to release the cords and improve your range of motion
- Stretching exercises — Regular arm and shoulder stretches can prevent cords from tightening further
- Massage — Gentle massage, myofascial release, and lymphatic drainage can help relax the tissue
- Moist heat — A warm, moist pad can ease discomfort, though apply with caution as heat can increase lymph fluid
- Swimming — A gentle, low-impact way to improve mobility and strength
- NSAIDs — Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can help manage pain and swelling

It's important to let your healthcare team know as soon as you notice symptoms so treatment can begin promptly and avoid longer-term mobility issues.

May 29
A MyBCTeam Member

I feel like that's what happened to me only I didn't know what it was called. I had surgery in 2024, lumpectomy and now I have pulling and it's uncomfortable, I go for a diagnostic mama June 5th because I went to the Dr, for the reason of it being uncomfortable and the scar has gotten thicker.

May 29
A MyBCTeam Member

I get cording every time I wash my hair. It is almost 3 years. Everything I have read about Cording, this is normal for extensive surgery, I was used for a class for teaching two procedures used for mastectomies. I’m still alive and grateful every day.

May 29 (edited)
A MyBCTeam Member

I had cording after my bilateral mastectomy 1 1/2 years ago. I am 2 weeks post-op from a reconstruction revision, and I have it again. It’s like weeds in a garden for me, nonstop once it starts!

May 29

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