Compression sleeves are often worn after breast surgery to prevent swelling, pain, tightness, or other symptoms associated with Lymphedema. Lymphedema is the accumulation of lymph fluid that can occur in the arms, fingers, wrist, shoulder, chest, or any area connected to the side where the breast was removed. It can develop over time or right after the breast surgery. Compression sleeves are often prescribed to help with the lymph fluid.

What are Compression Sleeves?

The sleeve is a tight, stretchy garment made of elastic that can be custom-fitted to the affected area. It can also be called a pressure garments, or lymphedema armsleeves. The garment should be fitted with the assistance of a professional, as the fit and comfort of the sleeve is very important. An ill-fitting garment will not be comfortable, nor will it do the job.

If being worn on the arm, the sleeves should fit snugly from the fingers up to the armpit. There should be no gaps or wrinkles in the garment, or excess fabric. The area around the fingers up to the first knuckle should also be a tight, snug fit.

Compression sleeves should feel comfortable when moving the arm or flexing the fingers. It should not be too tight. Fingers should not change colors, feel hot or cold, tingle, or swell.

The compression sleeve is ill-fitting if it does not come completely up to the armpit, or if the skin bulges at the top of the garment. If there are winkles in the garment the flow of the lymph could be blocked or restricted. Gaps in the garment could allow the area that is exposed to swell, causing more pain and problems.

Purchasing Compression Sleeves

The garment can be purchased already made. Start by carefully measuring the arm and follow the chart provided on sizing in order to get a perfect fit. A comfortable, snug fit can be achieved without trying it on beforehand.

Because the garment fits snugly, it may be difficult to put on correctly for those who have dexterity issues. There are special devices that will help with ensuring the compression sleeves are put on correctly. One is a tube with a handle that assists with pulling the sleeve up over the arm, the other is a plastic frame that the sleeve fits over and then pulls up the arm. In order to keep the compression sleeves in the correct position, a skin adhesive can be used.