Lymphedema Surgery

Improving Quality of Life for Patients with Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a chronic and progressive medical condition caused by an impaired lymphatic system, which leads to the persistent swelling of a limb. This condition can cause significant physical discomfort, a feeling of heaviness, reduced mobility, and an increased risk of serious skin infections (cellulitis). While traditional non-surgical therapies are the cornerstone of management, our specialised clinic in Antalya offers advanced surgical interventions designed to provide significant, long-term improvement and enhance your quality of life.

Advanced Surgical Solutions for Lymphedema

Lymphedema surgery is a highly specialised field. The goal of surgery is not to cure the condition, but to significantly improve its symptoms and slow its progression. The procedures fall into two main categories:

1. Physiological (Drainage) Procedures: These complex microsurgical techniques aim to restore the body's natural lymphatic drainage. They include Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT), where healthy lymph nodes are transplanted to the affected area to create new drainage pathways, and Lymphaticovenous Anastomosis (LVA), where lymphatic vessels are meticulously connected to tiny veins to bypass the damaged area.

2. Debulking (Reductive) Procedures: For later-stage lymphedema where chronic fluid buildup has led to the formation of solid, fibrotic fatty tissue, debulking procedures can be effective. These include Suction-Assisted Lipectomy (Liposuction) to remove this excess solid tissue and reduce the overall volume of the limb.

The Functional and Health Benefits

Surgical intervention can offer profound improvements for lymphedema patients:

• Reduced Swelling and Limb Size: The most direct benefit, leading to a noticeable reduction in the circumference and volume of the affected limb.

• Improved Mobility and Comfort: Alleviates the feelings of tightness and heaviness, making daily movements easier.

• Fewer Infections: By improving drainage and reducing fluid buildup, surgery can lower the frequency of painful and dangerous cellulitis episodes.

Your Lymphedema Surgery Journey

We are committed to providing realistic expectations and comprehensive care.

• Procedure Duration: Depending on the complexity of the technique, surgery typically lasts between 2 to 4 hours.

• Recovery and Rehabilitation: Recovery is a critical phase that takes several weeks. It is vital to understand that surgery is an adjunct to, not a replacement for, conservative therapy. Lifelong compression garment use and ongoing maintenance are essential to preserve the surgical results.

• Longevity of Results: Surgery can provide significant long-term improvement in symptoms. However, it is a tool for managing a chronic condition, not a cure.

• Potential Risks: Risks include infection, the potential for recurrence of swelling, and issues with wound healing, which are particular considerations for lymphedema patients.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general educational purposes and is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Lymphedema is a serious medical condition. A personal consultation with a qualified healthcare provider in our Antalya clinic is essential to determine your suitability for this procedure.