Can melanoma resection result in lymphedema?
Depending on your disease, the surgeon may remove the lymph nodes in a particular area. If you only have the melanoma removed, your chances of developing lymphedema are quite slim. If you had lymph nodes removed, particularly in the groin region, you are at risk of developing lymphedema. This results from the effects of gravity on fluid removal in the lower extremity. To minimize your risk, you may opt to wear a compression stocking on the affected leg.
