Not everyone with breast cancer will need this surgery. Sometimes, a sentinel lymph node biopsy, where only a few lymph nodes are removed for testing, is enough.

However, axillary clearance may be recommended when:

• Multiple lymph nodes are confirmed to contain cancer
• Imaging shows widespread lymph node involvement
• A biopsy reveals more extensive cancer spread
• More information is needed to guide chemotherapy or radiotherapy decisions

At BB Clinic, your case is never treated as “standard.” Every recommendation is made with care, based on your individual diagnosis and needs.

Axillary clearance is done in a hospital while you’re asleep under general anaesthesia. A small cut is made in your armpit, and most lymph nodes, usually 10 to 20, are removed.

The surgery generally takes one to two hours. Some patients stay overnight, while others return home the same day. A drain is often placed under the arm to collect fluid and is removed after a few days.

The main benefit of axillary clearance is reducing the chance of cancer returning in the underarm and providing accurate staging information to guide further treatment.

Possible side effects include:

• Short-term shoulder stiffness
• Numbness or tingling in the upper arm
• Fluid collection (seroma)
• Long-term swelling of the arm (lymphoedema) in some cases

If side effects do occur, early support, such as physiotherapy or lymphoedema management, can make a significant difference.

Most people need about two to four weeks to recover. Gentle arm and shoulder movements are encouraged soon after surgery to prevent stiffness. Light activities are usually possible within two weeks, with most patients returning to normal routines within a month.

Follow-up care is an essential part of the process. At BB Clinic, patients receive guidance on exercises, access to physiotherapy if needed, and regular reviews to monitor healing and manage any concerns early.

Where appropriate, axillary clearance at BB Clinic may be combined with oncoplastic techniques. This approach aims to remove cancer while considering arm function.

Patients have the opportunity to discuss their options during consultations, so decisions are informed and individualised. Follow-up continues after surgery, with regular reviews and post-operative consultations with Dr Yunaev as part of the care plan.

For patients in Sydney, NSW, considering axillary clearance for breast cancer, scheduling an early consultation can provide clarity and support in making treatment decisions.

Call: (02) 9819 7449 | Email: info@bbclinic.com.au