Lymphedema Treatment

Reducing Chronic Swelling

Microsurgical procedures aimed at reducing chronic swelling, often through lymphovenous bypass or lymph node transfer.

Recovery: 4–6 weeks

5 Key Benefits

Lymphedema is a chronic condition causing persistent swelling, typically of an arm or leg, due to damage to the lymphatic system — often following cancer treatment. While conservative treatment remains important, surgical options now offer significant and lasting improvement for suitable patients.

Key Benefits

Significant and lasting reduction in limb swelling

Reduces risk of recurrent cellulitis infections

Decreases reliance on compression garments

Minimally invasive microsurgical techniques

Improves quality of life and daily function

About the Procedure

Surgical treatment of lymphedema has advanced significantly with microsurgical techniques. These procedures aim to restore lymphatic drainage, reducing limb swelling, the risk of recurrent infections, and the need for compression garments.

Lymphovenous Bypass (LVB)

Blocked lymphatic channels are connected directly to small veins using microsurgery, creating alternative drainage pathways. This procedure is most effective in early-stage lymphedema before significant fibrosis has occurred.

Vascularised Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT)

Healthy lymph nodes are harvested from one part of the body (e.g., groin or neck) and transplanted to the affected area. The transferred nodes help restore lymphatic flow and reduce swelling.

Liposuction for Lymphedema

In advanced lymphedema with significant fatty tissue deposition, liposuction removes the excess tissue, reducing limb volume. This is combined with lifelong compression therapy to maintain results.

Am I a Candidate?

Patients with lymphedema secondary to cancer treatment, trauma, or infection who have not achieved adequate control with conservative management (compression, manual lymphatic drainage) may benefit from surgical intervention. Early-stage lymphedema responds best to microsurgical procedures.