Hi, I am recovering at this moment from double mastectomy with some lymphnode removal. My surgery was 5/27/10. I have been hearing around the specialized clinic I go to , that healing is very individualized. You must listen to your body and not push it past it's limit. I had a great Surgeon, but asking him questions was very unfruitful and frustrating because He is best at dealing with people who are unconcious. He doesn't seem to know about Lymphodemia after surgery or the treatment of it. Some people get it years after surgery. I got it 2 weeks after. My next step is My Primary or My Oncologist. The swelling is actually more painful than  the surgery. Just keep in touch with a Doctor any time you are not sure or nervous. I had nerve pain(needly feelings) My Primary Doctor prescribed 600 mg of Neaurontin. It works GREAT for me. 800 can also be prescribed. sleepy the first week but then I was able to get through that part. Rest is good anyway! I take each day and rest when My body says rest. Flexirel is a good 'as needed' med for muscle spasms(Tightness) You will heal much faster and better with rest. FYI. My Mother had regular breast cancer 30 years ago. She was diagnosed 5/28/09 with secondary cancers due to Radiation. She passed at 73 on July 29th 2009. My diagnosis was 11/27/09 and it was called Inflammatory Breast Cancer stage 3. It , Thanks be to God, had not Mastetized! I Hope the Info is helpful. Prayer is My long term goal. My cancer has been completely removed, Radiation is next, but they say Lymphodemia is life long. Not on My watch! Heal Well...JME:)