Lymphedema Surgery in New York and New Jersey

Lymphedema is a chronic and often debilitating condition that can occur after lymph node removal or damage, particularly following cancer treatment. Specialized Plastic Surgery offers advanced surgical interventions for lymphedema, providing relief and improving quality of life for patients struggling with swelling, discomfort, and restricted movement.

Through state-of-the-art techniques such as lymphaticovenous bypass (LVB), vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT), and other surgical solutions, Specialized Plastic Surgery is committed to restoring function and reducing the burden of lymphedema.

Restoring Function and Quality of Life

What is Lymphedema Surgery?

Lymphedema surgery encompasses a variety of microsurgical techniques aimed at addressing the underlying causes of fluid buildup in the affected area. Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system, responsible for draining fluid and maintaining fluid balance in the body, becomes damaged or obstructed. This often results in chronic swelling, pain, and decreased mobility.

Surgical interventions can reduce swelling, alleviate symptoms, and even improve lymphatic flow by repairing or bypassing damaged lymphatic vessels. These surgeries are often performed in conjunction with ongoing therapy, such as compression garments and physical therapy, to achieve the best outcomes.

Why Choose Lymphedema Surgery?

Lymphedema surgery offers several benefits including:

Reduced swelling

Restoring lymphatic flow helps minimize swelling and discomfort.

Improved mobility

By decreasing fluid buildup, patients experience less heaviness and improved movement in the affected limb.

Enhanced quality of life:

Addressing the physical and emotional burden of lymphedema can significantly boost confidence and daily comfort.

Long-term results

While conservation treatments like compression therapy manage symptoms, surgery targets the root cause for lasting relief.

Specialized Plastic Surgery focuses on delivering personalized solutions to meet each patient’s needs, combining advanced surgical expertise with compassionate care.

Who Is a Candidate for Lymphedema Surgery?

Lymphedema surgery is ideal for patient who:

Have secondary lymphedema: Typically resulting from lymph node removal, radiation, or cancer treatments.
Experience persistent swelling and discomfort: Despite conservative treatments such as compression therapy.
Have manageable fibrosis: Surgical outcomes are typically best when the tissue has not become excessively hardened or fibrotic.
Are committed to long-term care: Surgery is most effective when combined with ongoing lymphedema management strategies.

During your consultation, your plastic surgeon at Specialized Plastic Surgery will assess your specific condition to determine if lymphedema surgery is the right choice for you.

Innovative Surgical Solutions for Lymphedema

At Specialized Plastic Surgery, we offer cutting-edge surgical techniques tailored to each patient’s unique needs:

Lymphaticovenous Bypass (LVB): LVB involves reconnecting or bypassing damaged lymphatic vessels by linking them to nearby veins, allowing excess lymph fluid to drain into the bloodstream. This minimally invasive microsurgical procedure improves lymphatic flow and reduces swelling.
Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT): In VLNT, healthy lymph nodes are transplanted from one part of the body to the affected area. These new lymph nodes help rebuild the damaged lymphatic network, promoting fluid drainage and reducing symptoms.
Liposuction for Lymphedema: In cases where lymphedema has caused significant fat and fluid buildup, liposuction can help reshape the affected area and alleviate symptoms.
Hybrid Approaches: For some patients, a combination of LVB, VLNT, and liposuction may be recommended to achieve optimal results.

The specific steps of lymphedema surgery depend on the chosen technique. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:

Procedure duration: Lymphedema surgeries are complex and typically take 4-8 hours, depending on the technique and severity of the condition.
Minimally invasive options: Procedures like LVB are less invasive, allowing for quicker recovery.
Hospital stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-2 days after surgery, depending on the procedure.
Recovery time: Patients can expect to resume light activities within 2-4 weeks, with full recovery taking several months. Compression garments and physical therapy may still be part of your post-surgery care plan.

Our plastic surgeons bring advanced training in microsurgery and years of experience treating complex lymphedema cases. Their expertise in techniques such as LVB and VLNT ensure that patients receive the highest level of care, with a focus on personalized treatment plans and long-term results.

At Specialized Plastic Surgery, we prioritize your comfort and well-being, working with you every step of the way on your journey to relief and a restored quality of life.

Lymphedema Surgery

Schedule Your Consultation for Lymphedema Surgery

If lymphedema is affecting your ability to enjoy life, take the first step toward relief with Specialized Plastic Surgery. Our expert team is here to provide innovative surgical solutions tailored to your needs. Let us help you find freedom from lymphedema and reclaim your quality of life.

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