How I Treat Lymphedema | Dr. Eric Chang

Added: 2026-05-15

[00:00:00]If you've been told lymphedema is something you just have to manage, you may not have been given the full picture. At the Institute, we treat both primary and secondary lymphedema with advanced surgical options designed to improve [music] drainage, reduce swelling, and improve quality of life.

[00:00:14]You may be a candidate for lymphedema surgery if you have persistent swelling, heaviness, discomfort, recurrent infections, or if compression alone isn't giving you enough relief. One option is lymphatico-venous anastomosis or LVA, a minimally invasive microsurgical procedure that creates new pathways for lymphatic fluid to drain into nearby veins. Because LVA is minimally invasive, it's often done as an outpatient or overnight stay with a faster recovery. Many patients experience decreased swelling, improved comfort, and reduced reliance on compression garments. [music] For patients with more advanced disease, free lymph node transfer may be an option. This procedure transplants healthy lymph nodes along with their blood supply to areas [music] where lymphatic drainage has been damaged.

[00:00:54]Recovery typically takes several weeks, and patients work closely with therapists. Improvements may happen gradually, but results can include reduced limb volume, less pain, and improved mobility and quality of life.

[00:01:05]In cases where lymphedema has caused excess fat, scar tissue, or large masses, liposuction or mass excision may be used, sometimes in combination with other lymphatic procedures, to improve function and movement. For patients who develop lymphedema after breast cancer, reconstructive surgery can sometimes [music] be performed at the same time as a lymphatic surgery, addressing both form and function in a coordinated approach. Not every patient needs surgery, but many patients qualify for more options than they realize. [music] The key is a thorough evaluation and an individualized treatment plan. I'm Dr. Cheng at the Institute, and our team specializes in advanced lymphedema surgery to [music] help patients move beyond management and toward meaningful relief.