Reduce your risk of painful swelling with lymphedema surgery, a highly specialized procedure offered by Dr. Stephen Lu. Using advanced super microsurgical techniques, Dr. Lu restores lymphatic flow, helping patients prevent or manage lymphedema after breast cancer treatment, lymph node removal, or radiation, while improving long-term comfort and mobility.
Prevent Lymphedema Before It Happens With Prophylactic Lymphatic Reconstruction
Prophylactic lymphatic reconstruction prevents swelling caused by damage to your lymphatic system. If you’re undergoing axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) during mastectomy, Dr. Lu can perform this preventive procedure, also known as a LYMPHA procedure, at the same time to lower your risk of lymphedema (in partnership with the breast surgeon).
ALND carries up to a 30% risk of causing permanent arm lymphedema, especially when followed by radiation. Prophylactic lymphatic reconstruction helps lower this risk by reconnecting lymphatic channels before swelling develops. While some insurers still consider it investigational, Dr. Lu and our team work diligently to obtain coverage for patients, allowing you to benefit from this preventive option.
Advantages of the LYMPHA Procedure:
- Significantly reduces the risk of developing lymphedema after ALND
- Helps protect against lymphatic damage from radiation therapy
- Performed at the same time as cancer surgery, avoiding a second operation
- Uses microsurgical precision to reconnect lymphatic channels before swelling starts
- May reduce long-term reliance on compression garments and therapies
Your Lymphedema Surgery Options
For those already experiencing symptoms of lymphedema, surgery may be necessary. Your care begins with a consultation, which includes a review of your medical history, imaging, and lymphatic mapping to determine the best course of treatment. Whenever possible, Dr. Lu emphasizes the use of nonsurgical therapies, such as physical therapy, compression, and massage, before surgery, to optimize overall outcomes. If lymphedema surgery is appropriate, Dr. Lu may perform:
Lymphaticovenous Bypass (LVB/LVA):
This delicate super microsurgical procedure reconnects tiny lymphatic vessels directly to nearby veins, creating new drainage pathways for trapped lymph fluid. By rerouting fluid into the venous system, swelling is reduced, circulation improves, and symptoms such as heaviness and discomfort are alleviated. LVB/LVA is especially effective for patients with early to moderate lymphedema.
Liposuction:
For advanced lymphedema where longstanding swelling has caused fat buildup in the affected limb, liposuction may be performed. This procedure removes excess fat tissue, reducing limb size and improving function. While it doesn’t restore lymphatic flow, it can significantly improve comfort and appearance when used in conjunction with ongoing compression therapy and supportive care.
Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT):
VLNT involves transplanting healthy lymph nodes, usually from the abdomen or neck, to the affected area where drainage is impaired. These transplanted nodes establish new lymphatic pathways and encourage long-term fluid regulation. Over time, VLNT can help decrease swelling, reduce the risk of infection, and restore mobility for patients with moderate to advanced lymphedema.
Lymphedema Surgery FAQs
What Causes Lymphedema in the First Place?
Lymphedema occurs when your lymphatic system can’t properly drain fluid from your tissues. This may happen after cancer treatments that involve lymph node removal or radiation therapy, especially in breast, gynecologic, or prostate cancer. It can also result from infections, trauma, or be present from birth (congenital lymphedema). When lymphatic flow is disrupted, fluid builds up, causing swelling, discomfort, and sometimes skin changes or infections.
Will I Still Need Compression Garments After Surgery?
Yes, at least for a period after surgery. Compression remains an important tool, but many patients find they need less frequent or lower-grade compression over time. One goal of surgery is to reduce your long-term dependence on compression therapy.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Results vary based on the type of surgery. Some patients notice gradual improvement in swelling and comfort within weeks, while others experience benefits over several months. Preventive LYMPH procedures help minimize the risk of developing lymphedema from the start, which means the success is measured in prevention as much as in symptom relief.
Meet Dr. Stephen Lu
Dr. Stephen Lu is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with advanced training in super microsurgery techniques and prophylactic lymphatic reconstruction. Trained in Manhattan and now serving patients in Pennsylvania, he combines his big-city expertise with small-town compassion. With experience in LYMPHA procedures, lymphatic bypass, node transfer, and lymphedema management, Dr. Lu is committed to helping patients live comfortably. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lu to explore your surgical options today.
