Restorative & Supportive Procedures

Lymphedema is a condition where fluid builds up in the arm, breast, or chest wall after breast cancer treatment—most often due to the removal or damage of lymph nodes during surgery or radiation. It can cause swelling, heaviness, discomfort, and sometimes infections.

While therapies like compression garments, massage, and exercise are the first line of care, some women benefit from lymphedema surgery, which is designed to improve lymphatic flow, reduce swelling, and improve quality of life.

Why Lymphedema Surgery May Be Needed

• Lymph nodes removed: Axillary lymph node dissection or sentinel node biopsy can disrupt normal fluid drainage.

• Radiation therapy: Can scar or damage lymphatic pathways.

• Persistent swelling: Some women develop ongoing swelling that doesn’t fully respond to conservative therapy.

Surgery doesn’t cure lymphedema, but it can help reduce symptoms, slow progression, and improve comfort.

Types of Lymphedema Surgery

There are several surgical options, and your doctor will recommend the one best suited to your stage of lymphedema:

• Lymphovenous Bypass (LVB): Surgeons connect tiny lymphatic vessels directly to nearby veins, giving lymph fluid a new pathway to drain. Best for early-stage lymphedema.

• Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT): Healthy lymph nodes are moved from one part of the body (like the groin or neck) to the affected arm or chest to help restore lymphatic drainage.

• Liposuction for Lymphedema: For advanced lymphedema with fatty tissue buildup, liposuction can reduce volume and heaviness. Compression therapy is still needed afterward.

Benefits of Lymphedema Surgery

• Reduced swelling: May decrease arm or chest size and heaviness.

• Less discomfort: Improves mobility, range of motion, and reduces the feeling of tightness.

• Lower infection risk: By improving drainage, surgery can help reduce cellulitis episodes.

• Improved quality of life: Many women feel more comfortable with daily activities and clothing.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Not a cure: Surgery can improve lymphedema but doesn’t eliminate it completely.

• Compression still required: Most women continue wearing compression sleeves or garments after surgery.

• Specialized procedure: These surgeries require a microsurgeon with experience in lymphatic reconstruction.

• Recovery: Healing is usually faster than major reconstruction, but restrictions on lifting and activity are needed for a few weeks.

• Insurance coverage: Coverage can vary—check with your plan in advance.

Emotional Considerations

Living with lymphedema can be frustrating, and adding another surgery may feel daunting. Many women find hope knowing that surgical options exist, especially if conservative treatments haven’t been enough. Others prefer to continue non-surgical management. Both choices are valid—what matters is what helps you live comfortably and confidently.

A Personal Choice

Lymphedema surgery is an evolving field that offers new hope for women facing long-term swelling after breast cancer treatment. It is about restoring flow, reducing burden, and helping you move through life with greater ease. It may not be the right choice for everyone, but for some, it can make daily life easier and more comfortable.