Learning about Lymphedema

Yesterday I went to my physical therapy appointment, it was insightful and I learned alot about how breast VILLAIN patients can get lymphodema. I asked what time frame I am looking at to expect it, if it is to come. I was told that as long as you don't have lymph nodes you can get it. So even if you are free from the VILLAIN for 20 years you can still get it, it actually has nothing to do with the VILLAIN, and there is not much you can do to prevent it, some people get it some people don't. I can start my exercises as soon as I get the last drain out.
Today, I went to see my oncology surgeon Dr. Pockji for the last time, she took out my drain and said everything looks good as far as the cosmetics of it. This is interesting since I look at myself and think I look like a "experimental Frankenstein patient" Every time I look at myself in the mirror, I am sad and wonder if I will ever get used to it.
I told Dr. Pockji thank you so much for the compassion she showed me at the hospital and for her confidence and positive, yet REAL attitude. I do much better with the straight forward truth, as she was really great for my personality. I was sad to say good-bye to her, but hope I don't ever need to see her again, since she is a breast VILLAIN doctor.