I had and have both and am so fine and dandy I think I'm Wonder Woman most of the time!
The auxiliary clearance was annoying and still causes discomfort but its just how things are now, massaging the area helps but it doesn't stop me doing anything at all, in fact I find that exercise really helps with teh discomfort and notice when I don't cycle/gym/walk....the exercises they provide post mx really helped and now I still stretch that arm up and out a lot which helps.
I also got lymphodema (didn't;t look after my mx side well enough!!) and again, its very manageable, its in the index & middle fingers and I wear a compression sleeve & glove to manage it, as well as massaging the area on a morning (and evening if I can be bothered!), I've had the lymphodema since July 2020 maybe, and had AXC March 2020 so in my case I deffo did something (fell off my bike!) to cause it to occur. So top-tip, look after your affected side! But it doesn't stop me doing anything or wearing anything, I am however not at all self-conscious that no doubt helps.
Axillary clearance is usually only levels 1 and 2 lymph nodes and level 3, the ones above your collar bone, are usually left. Lymphoedema is a side effect but not usual. Many women have axillary clearance without any major problems. If you do develop lymphoedema it may only be mild and is easily dealt with. Don't worry about it now - cross that bridge when/if it happens.
