Breast Reconstruction
Lymphedema Surgery
Advanced microsurgical care to improve your lymphatic health and restore your quality of life.
WHAT IS LYMPHEDEMA SURGERY
Thoughtful intervention for chronic swelling.
Lymphedema is a chronic condition that causes uncomfortable, heavy arm swelling, often developing after lymph node removal or radiation therapy for breast cancer.
We understand how frustrating and physically limiting this condition can be, which is why we offer advanced, surgical solutions to address it directly.
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At ARBRA Plastic Surgery, our surgeons offer Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT) to carefully selected patients. This cutting-edge microsurgical procedure goes beyond just managing your symptoms—it is designed to actually improve your body’s lymphatic function.
By expertly transferring healthy lymph nodes from another part of your body (such as the groin or abdomen) to the affected area, we help restore natural drainage. Our goal is to significantly reduce the daily burden of lymphedema and help you get back to living your life comfortably.
WHAT IS LYMPHEDEMA SURGERY
Thoughtful intervention for chronic swelling.
Lymphedema is a chronic condition that causes uncomfortable, heavy arm swelling, often developing after lymph node removal or radiation therapy for breast cancer.
We understand how frustrating and physically limiting this condition can be, which is why we offer advanced, surgical solutions to address it directly.
​
At Arbra Plastic Surgery, Dr. Kania offers Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT) to carefully selected patients. This cutting-edge microsurgical procedure goes beyond just managing your symptoms—it is designed to actually improve your body’s lymphatic function.
By expertly transferring healthy lymph nodes from another part of your body (such as the groin or abdomen) to the affected area, we help restore natural drainage. Our goal is to significantly reduce the daily burden of lymphedema and help you get back to living your life comfortably.
TAILORING YOUR CARE
Advanced techniques to support your lymphatic system.
Lymphedema care requires a highly customized approach. As a fellowship-trained microsurgeon, Dr. Kania offers several specialized techniques to treat existing swelling or proactively protect patients who are considered high risk.
01
VASCULARIZED LYMPH NODE TRANSFER (VLNT)
Restoring Natural Drainage
This advanced microsurgery involves gently taking a small pad of healthy tissue containing expendable lymph nodes from a donor site and transferring it to the affected arm. Once reconnected to the local blood supply, these new nodes act like a sponge, absorbing excess fluid and routing it back into your bloodstream.
02
LYMPHOVENOUS BYPASS (LVb)
Creating New Pathways
For certain patients, our surgeons can perform an incredibly delicate procedure that connects blocked or damaged lymphatic vessels directly into tiny, nearby veins. This essentially creates a "detour" for the fluid, giving it a clear, healthy path to drain out of the arm.
03
COMBINED RECONSTRUCTION
A Streamlined Approach
For patients who also desire natural-tissue breast reconstruction (such as a DIEP flap), our surgeons can often perform a lymph node transfer at the exact same time. This seamlessly reconstructs your breast and treats your lymphedema in a single, coordinated surgery.
WHY LYMPHEDEMA SURGERY
Relief that goes beyond managing symptoms.
You deserve to feel comfortable and mobile. By addressing the root cause of the swelling through precise microsurgery, we strive to significantly improve your day-to-day quality of life and give you back your freedom.
You deserve to feel comfortable and mobile. By addressing the root cause of the swelling through precise microsurgery, we strive to significantly improve your day-to-day quality of life and give you back your freedom.
WHY LYMPHEDEMA SURGERY
Relief that goes beyond managing symptoms.
Reduced Swelling
By providing a new pathway for lymphatic fluid to drain naturally, these procedures often result in a noticeable, long-term decrease in arm size and heaviness.
Preventative Care
For high-risk patients, utilizing these advanced surgical techniques early can proactively help prevent severe, irreversible lymphedema from developing.
Better Quality of Life
By alleviating chronic discomfort and restoring your arm's natural mobility, you can comfortably return to the active lifestyle and clothing you love.
FAQ
Answers to help guide your decisions.
We know this process comes with a lot of questions, and it is completely normal to want as much information as possible. Here are a few common answers to help get you started.