When trauma (such as radiotherapy, surgery, accident, or illness) is involved, lymphedema usually develops within the first two years following the trauma, but the risk remains for life. If you can do something about the cause of the risk of lymphedema (for example, venous insufficiency, severe obesity, or prolonged immobilization), we encourage you to talk to your health-care team right away to get the best advice.

If you are at risk of lymphedema due to trauma, assess your risk of developing lymphedema (PDF)

Consult your healthcare professional to validate your actual risk.