Liposuction to treat lymphoedema

In all stages of lymphoedema, when fibrosis and fattening have already occurred (stage 3), liposuction is often the first treatment option.

Liposuction is also performed in advanced lymphoedema (elephantiasis) or if no other surgery is possible.

Course of the operation

In liposuction, all the subcutaneous fatty tissue of a thick arm or leg is sucked out in a special way. A therapeutic elastic stocking must be worn day and night after surgery without fail. The duration of the compression will be determined with the surgeon.

This operation usually significantly improves the mobility of the limb and reduces the risk of developing wound erosion by more than 90%.

Duration of surgery and hospitalisation

This operation usually takes about three hours. The patient stays 1 night in the hospital.

Aftercare

The treated limb is wrapped with a special pressure bandage that must be changed twice a week.

A pressure stocking (leg) or pressure sleeve (arm) can usually be started after a week. As with all other surgeries, physical activity is avoided for several weeks.

Therapy compliance is very important after this surgery. Wearing a pressure stocking is mandatory after surgery, otherwise swelling will return.