AXILLARY DISSECTION

What is an axillary dissection?

The operation is performed under general anaesthesia. An incision is made under the armpit. The lymph nodes, which can range from 10 to 40, are removed. A drain is routinely inserted. The incision is closed with dissolvable sutures. A overnight stay in hospital is required.

All surgery has risks despite the highest standard of practice. The following possible complications are listed to inform not to alarm. There may be other complications that are not listed.

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Seroma, a build-up of fluid in the cavity where the tissue has been removed. Sometimes it can cause a swelling and the fluid may need to be removed with a needle and syringe.
• Scarring
• Numbness in the armpit, upper arm and shoulder area
• Shoulder stiffness
• Lymphoedema



Dr Mary Ling performs breast cancer surgery at Gosford Private Hospital and Brisbane Waters Private Hospital on the Central Coast. Dr Ling welcomes patients from Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, the Hunter Region and Northern NSW. Dr Ling participates in the No Gap scheme for cancer operations if you have private insurance.