Objective To estimate the incidence and risk factors of axillary web syndrome (AWS) after breast cancer surgery. Methods A prospective cohort of 135 women undergoing breast cancer surgery was conducted for 12 weeks, and risk factors were collected. Results The incidence of early postoperative AWS was 28.1%. Logistic regression showed that BMI<24 (OR=1.74), mastectomy (OR=1.38), axillary dissection (OR=2.13), and the number of lymph nodes dissected≥15 (OR=1.85) were risk factors of AWS. Conclusion AWS was a common complication after breast cancer surgery, and it was associated with patient characteristics and treatment.