Lymphoedema treatment options
Lymphoedema surgery is a specialised form of reconstructive surgery. It aims to support lymph drainage, reduce limb size and bulk, and improve comfort and function when conservative care alone is not enough.
At the Great North Lymphatic Centre, we use clinical examination and ICG lymphography to understand how your lymphatic system works now. We then match one or more procedures to your pattern of lymphoedema and your goals. This page gives a brief overview of the main options. Each procedure has its own section with more detail.
Safety, evidence & follow-up
BASED
Procedures
All procedures are performed by consultant plastic surgeons with specialist training in lymphoedema surgery and reconstructive microsurgery. We use ICG lymphography and current evidence to support decision-making, and we review your progress with structured follow-up.
Lymphoedema surgery always sits alongside conservative measures such as compression, skincare, and lymphoedema therapy. We will discuss how each option fits into your long-term plan and only suggest surgery when we believe the potential benefits outweigh the risks in your situation.
If you’d like to discuss which procedure may suit you, please contact our team.
How we decide on surgery
We combine information from three areas to decide whether surgery is appropriate and, if so, which procedures may help. We then explain which options may suit you, outline likely benefits and limits, and give you time to consider your choices and ask questions before you decide. For a step-by-step outline of appointments and sequencing, see Your Pathway on our About page.
01Signs & Symptoms
We take a detailed history and examine the affected area or areas. We look at limb size and shape, how tissues feel (soft, firm, or “woody”), overhangs and folds, skin and nail changes, and your history of infection or cellulitis. We also ask how swelling affects your work, daily activities, and quality of life.
02ICG Lymphography
We use ICG lymphography to map working superficial lymphatic vessels and to identify areas of blockage or backflow. The scan helps us see which regions still carry dye forwards and which show more advanced change.
03Context and Goals
We consider your general health, other medical conditions, previous surgery or radiotherapy, and your response to conservative care so far. We then discuss what matters most to you, such as reducing infection risk, improving limb size, garment fit, or specific activities. In some situations, more than one operation could help; in others, a staged plan offers the safest and most effective approach.
Next steps
To discuss your suitability for lymphoedema surgery, contact our team. We will review your history, current treatment and goals, and advise on the most appropriate next steps at our luxury medical centre at The Beverley in Gateshead.
Complete our contact form to discuss your suitability for lymphoedema surgery.