For many people, lymph node removal is a critical step in breast cancer treatment. Removing the lymph nodes gives your doctor more information about the potential spread of cancer and may help stop tumors in their tracks.

Unfortunately, the procedure can come with unpleasant side effects, including unexpected smells — such as underarm odor — and skin problems. “It has been five days since my lumpectomy and lymph nodes biopsy,” a MyBCTeam member wrote. “Overall, I am feeling good, but I have soreness and numbness at the lymph node incision.”

Here are some common side effects you should know about, along with helpful advice on how to deal with them, including firsthand tips from MyBCTeam members.

Side Effects of Lymph Node Removal in the Armpit

Knowing what to expect before heading into surgery can help you mentally prepare and gather what you’ll need for recovery. Depending on the extent of your surgery, lymph node removal requires several weeks of healing. You can get ready by stocking up on the right supplies and asking others for support to get you through the process.

Side effects may include:

• Armpit scarring
• Limited arm and shoulder movement
• Lymphedema or swelling in the arm or chest
• Skin numbness on the upper inner arm

Members of MyBCTeam have also described stubborn body odor that’s unlike anything they experienced before surgery. “I have an incredible sense of smell, and yes, the smell is on the side of my lymph node removal,” one member said. “I go for lymphedema massage therapy and notice it smells worse after therapy. Maybe when they work on the buildup, it releases whatever gets clogged, and that’s what smells.”

The following four tips can help you deal with the potential negative side effects you may face following lymph node removal.

1. Replace Your Deodorant With Cornstarch

Friction is your skin’s worst enemy when healing from lymph node removal. Fortunately, cornstarch can help keep your underarms dry and stop the skin from rubbing together and becoming irritated. You can apply cornstarch with less mess by dumping a small amount into a thin sock or stocking. Then gently tap the sock against your armpit skin for light coverage.

Some members of MyBCTeam have noted an unpleasant underarm odor after lymph node removal. One described it as smelling like “rotten meat,” and another reported that the odor persists after several years. “It’s been 20 years, and it’s still horrible and embarrassing,” they wrote. “Like you said, you can get out of the shower, and it’s still there after scrubbing. It’s not every day, though, only periodically.”

One member who didn’t want to give up deodorant found success using a vegan product from Love Beauty and Planet. Another said, “I have found that Clinique deodorant really works. It is unscented, yet it really helps keep the odor away.”

Dealing with body odor after breast surgery may mean trying a few different products until you figure out what works best for you. Once your incision heals and your doctor clears you to use products on your armpit, you can see whether deodorant, antiperspirant, or natural powders offer you the best results.

2. Do Your Prescribed Exercises — No More and No Less

It’s normal to feel weak and sore after lymph node surgery. You’ll probably have a limited range of motion, along with a higher risk of lymphedema. Movement is an essential part of recovery, but it’s important not to overdo it. A physical therapist can help guide you on the right type and number of exercises to perform as you heal. The right amount of exercise will help improve your strength and fight off dangerous infections and blood clots.

Getting plenty of rest and gradually building up your stamina by walking are good starting points in the early days after your procedure. Avoid intense exercise, weight lifting, and strenuous tasks (including housework) until your doctor gives you the green light. Even lifting something like a bag of groceries or cat litter can cause damage that sets you back. Instead, ask for help and plan to be off duty in terms of physical activities until your body is ready.

3. Be Careful To Avoid Injuries

As mentioned, lymphedema is one of the most dreaded side effects of lymph node removal surgery. Normally, the lymphatic system drains excess fluid, but this process doesn’t always happen as smoothly after lymph node dissection. Lymphedema may make your arm feel heavy and your skin feel tight. Injuries often worsen swelling and may lead to dangerous consequences, like a skin infection.

Accidents happen. But you can do your part to avoid getting injured by taking special precautions, such as:

• Avoiding bug bites by wearing insect repellent and long sleeves
• Being extra careful if shaving and, if possible, using an electric razor
• Pushing back your nail cuticles gently instead of cutting them
• Preventing sunburn by staying in the shade or wearing sunblock
• Wearing protective gloves when gardening, cleaning, or washing dishes
• Using a thimble when sewing to prevent jabs from a needle

One MyBCTeam member described their experience with infection and lymphedema: “I’ve been dealing with lymphedema. It seems like forever,” they said. “This is my second bout with cancer. I wear a compression sleeve and got massages for a while. I also wrap my arm at night. I caught an infection in that area, which blew my arm up to like three times the regular size.”

If you get injured after lymph node removal or have signs of infection, such as a fever or a rash, let your doctor know right away so you can discuss treatment options.

4. Tend to Your Scars — Both Physical and Emotional

Some people develop armpit scars after lymph node removal. Inflammation of the connective tissue can lead to the formation of tight bands known as cording or banding. Also known as axillary web syndrome, scarring may extend as far down as the thumb. Although cording is painful, it’s not dangerous and may improve with time. Massages, stretching, and anti-inflammatory medications can help. Let your health care professional know if you’re starting to notice scar tissue so you can take action to help reduce it.

Breast cancer is a lot for anyone to cope with, even when you have a strong support system. Sometimes undergoing surgery or experiencing complications can set you on a negative path. One member described their struggles: “I can’t sleep. I suffer from anxiety attacks. I’ve changed as a person. I go off at the smallest things, don’t go out (only in my garden), can’t mix with people, and don’t have sex with my partner. I don’t like being hugged. I’ve had cancer twice, and now I have it for the third time. I feel angry and lost. My family doesn’t understand why I’m like I am. But life for me is just so, so hard.”

Emotional pain requires your attention, just as physical pain does. If you’re having a tough time after lymph node removal surgery, ask your breast cancer team about meeting with a mental health provider for support and resources to address your concerns.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyBCTeam is the social network for people with breast cancer and their loved ones. On MyBCTeam, more than 64,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their tips with others who understand life with breast cancer.

If you’ve had lymph node surgery, do you have any underarm skin care or general wellness tips for life after surgery? Are there any over-the-counter products you’d recommend or stories you’d like to share? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.