At University of Michigan Health, our surgeons have special training and experience to treat patients who developed lymphedema in the extremities after cancer treatment, particularly after breast cancer treatment. U-M Health is also a Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LEARN) Center of Excellence, a designation that recognizes our ability to provide continuous, multidisciplinary care for these patients. 

Who is a good candidate for lymphedema surgery?

Since surgery is not considered a primary treatment for lymphedema, ideal surgery candidates are patients who have been thoroughly evaluated and treated by plastic surgeons and occupational therapists certified in lymphedema treatment.

Which treatment is best for me?

Choosing the right treatment pathway for lymphedema depends on a number of factors. To help plan the best surgical intervention for you, our surgeons use highly specialized imaging techniques, like indocyanine green (ICG) lymphangiography to map lymphatic channels. 

What does post-lymphedema surgery recovery look like?

After lymphedema surgery, you will need to continue with non-surgical treatments like compression and physical therapy to maximize the benefits of the procedure.

To schedule a consultation, call Plastic Surgery at (734) 998-6022.

We offer a variety of surgical approaches to treat and prevent lymphedema.

Preventative procedures

• Immediate lymphatic reconstruction: This is a procedure to help rebuild damaged lymphatic vessels after your lymph nodes are removed during breast cancer surgery, which can help lymphatic fluid drain properly and lower your chance of developing lymphedema. A plastic surgeon performs this procedure during your breast cancer surgery to minimize the number of surgeries you have to undergo. This is a unique service offered by plastic surgeons and breast oncology surgeons with the Weiser Family Center for Breast Cancer. 

Microsurgical procedures

• Lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA): Tiny lymphatic channels are connected to small veins so that lymphatic fluid can drain directly into the venous system.
• Vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT): Healthy lymph nodes from one part of the body are moved to the area of lymphedema to help drain fluid more effectively.

Excisional procedures

• Direct excision: Removing extra tissue from the areas most affected by lymphedema, which includes suction-assisted lipectomy.