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If radiation therapy can cause fibrosis and breast scarring which adds to breast lymphedema problems and progression, what can be done?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Rochester, NY

Ultrasound can get rid of some but not all scarring. Scarring can continue or come back..

Is one then in a constant loop of ultrasound maintenance while fibrosis gets worse?

What can be done besides ultrasound?

August 21
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Reactions
A MyBCTeam Member

Hello all,
I have commented on parts of this previously but wanted to add.MLD with a certified therapist,is 140$-180$ a time...before a tip.Insurance will not pay.My provider is 30 minutes away,and the other one is 45 min.Its wonderful to do but cost prohibitive over the long haul for a lot of women.You really have to do it on a continual basis to keep reaping the rewards.
The LLLT is what I do now,along with walking and weights and exercise everyday,of course.It works 30 percent better than the compression arm bands( proven medical fact)
I have custom arm bands and a machine that I wear at night for an hour to help my mild lymphedema .
I have cotton to the point where I am not wearing the sleeves very often,only use the machine every other night,and do lasers once weekly now.You don't lose the benefits of laser and backslide...it keeps improving.Great for fibrosis,scaring,cording as well.
Most people can't tell that one arm on top is bigger than the other,but I can...I still feel good in my dresses!

August 22
MyBCTeam

Managing radiation-related fibrosis and lymphedema can feel like an uphill battle, and it's completely understandable to feel frustrated. The good news is that there are several approaches beyond ultrasound that may help manage both fibrosis and lymphedema together.

Here are some options worth discussing with your care Show Full Answer

Managing radiation-related fibrosis and lymphedema can feel like an uphill battle, and it's completely understandable to feel frustrated. The good news is that there are several approaches beyond ultrasound that may help manage both fibrosis and lymphedema together.

Here are some options worth discussing with your care team:

- Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) — A specialized massage technique performed by a certified lymphedema therapist that helps move fluid and may soften fibrotic tissue over time
- Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) — A comprehensive program combining MLD, compression bandaging, exercise, and skin care
- Compression garments — Worn regularly to help control lymphedema progression
- Targeted stretching and exercise — Gentle movement can improve circulation and tissue flexibility
- Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) — Some studies suggest it may help reduce both fibrosis and lymphedema
- Medications — In some cases, doctors may consider medications to help manage fibrosis progression It's important to work with a lymphedema specialist alongside your oncology team, as managing fibrosis and lymphedema together really benefits from a coordinated, personalized plan.

While maintenance therapy can feel ongoing, many people find a routine that stabilizes things rather than experiencing constant worsening. Catching changes early and communicating them to your doctor makes a real difference in staying ahead of progression.

August 21
A MyBCTeam Member

I definitely have to ask about this.

August 22
A MyBCTeam Member

Wearing compression sleeve really helps. PT for your shoulder helps too. My range of motion had really decreased after radiation
PT really helpef

August 21

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