This study aims to elicit patient experiences, choices, and side effects associated with the COVID-19 vaccine after breast cancer surgery. Lymph node swelling is a known and common side effect of both the Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines. This is the body's normal reaction to the vaccine. It is worrisome that lymph node swelling after the vaccine mimics that found in breast cancer which has spread to the lymph nodes. This side effect will cause worry and anxiety amongst patients as a result. For patients who have had lymph node removal (axillary lymph node dissection or sentinel lymph node biopsy) and are at risk of lymphedema, the investigators are concerned that the lymph node swelling may tax the lymphatic system and incite lymphedema in those at risk or worsen it in those with BCRL. Fear of lymphedema is high in this population and the investigators need to better understand what risk, if any, lymph node swelling after the COVID-19 vaccine imparts to BCRL risk.
Hypothesis 1: Patients will choose to receive the vaccine on the arm contralateral to axillary lymph node removal, or in the lower extremity if they have had bilateral axillary lymph node removal Hypothesis 2: Patients with a history of breast cancer will experience axillary lymph node swelling after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine at the same rate as the general population Hypothesis 3: Patients with axillary surgery who develop lymph nodes swelling in the ipsilateral side might be at increased risk of developing lymphedema
Female patients who are ≥18 years of age and have a History of breast cancer For the MGH site, patients must have Received some breast cancer treatment at MGH or its affiliates Received perometry measurements to measure arm volume at MGH
