Can Liposuction Help Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is a chronic disorder that results in tissue swelling due to a build-up of protein-rich fluid, called lymph, which is discharged through the lymphatic system of the body. Although it typically affects the arms or legs, it can also happen in the chest wall, abdomen, neck, or genitalia.

Severe Lymphoedema can impair motion in the affected limb, raise the risk of sepsis and skin infections, and cause skin abnormalities and disintegration. 

Lymphoedema is caused by a malfunction of the lymphatic system. This is a system of arteries and glands found all over the body. Its function is to remove excess fluid from tissues and fight infection (this is why your Lymph nodes swell when you are unwell).

Lymphoedema may result from the lymphatic system developing improperly, being damaged, or having more fluid than normal in the bodily tissues.

Lymphoedema comes in two forms:

• Primary Lymphoedema - This is caused by genetic defects that interfere with the lymphatic system's development; it can appear at any age, but commonly does so in adolescence. 
• Secondary Lymphoedema - Often caused by damage to the lymphatic system or issues with fluid transport and drainage within the lymphatic system, frequently as a result of an infection, accident, cancer therapy, limb inflammation, or a lack of limb mobility. 

Depending on whether Lymphoedema is primary or secondary, different risk factors apply.

Primary Lymphoedema runs in families. It occurs when the genes involved in the lymphatic system's development have flaws, which prevent it from properly draining fluid. Having close family members who suffer from Primary Lymphoedema is the biggest risk factor.

Secondary Lymphoedema develops as a result of another lymphatic system disorder. Risk factors include: 

Lymphoedema's primary symptom is swelling, which can make it difficult to fit into clothing or cause jewellery and watches to feel constrictive. Lymphoedema can affect one or more limbs or other parts of the body. This may lead to self-consciousness or a drop in confidence.

The swelling may first come and go. It could deteriorate during the day before improving at night. Without therapy, it typically gets worse and persists longer.

Additional symptoms of Lymphoedema include:

• A painful, heavy sensation 
• Difficulty moving the affected area 
• The skin feeling tight and brittle 
• Skin folds beginning to form 
• Fluid leaking through the skin 
• Persistent or continual skin infections 

There are a number of treatments for Lymphoedema depending on the extent of the condition and the areas that it is affecting. These treatments typically focus on reducing swelling, improving lymphatic drainage and preventing complications:

• Lymphatic Drainage Massage – This is a specialist massage technique which stimulates the flow of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. It is carried out by specialist therapists and helps to treat minor Lymphoedema. 
• Compression Therapy – Specialist garments, bandages or devices place compression on the affected area to reduce swelling and promote lymphatic drainage. 
• Medication – Medication such as antibiotics or diuretics may help to treat Lymphoedema depending on the cause. 
• Surgery - In severe cases of Lymphedema that have not responded to other treatments, Lymphoedema surgery such as Lymphaticovenous Anastomosis (LVA) or Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT) may help to improve lymphatic drainage and reduce swelling. Liposuction can also be used to remove excess fat build up. 

A healthy lifestyle can both lower your chance of developing Lymphoedema and help you manage the condition if you currently have it.

This includes:

Eating a balanced, nutritious diet 

A balanced, healthy diet helps to manage Lymphoedema by:

• Reducing inflammation – As Lymphoedema is an inflammation driven condition, it is important to keep inflammation to a minimum. A diet high in sugar, salt and alcohol is more likely to promote inflammation throughout the body. Instead fruit and vegetables, wholegrains and lean protein will help to reduce and manage inflammation. 
• Managing sodium intake – Excess sodium (found in salt) can contribute to fluid retention, increasing swelling. Reducing the amount of sodium, especially through salt levels in your diet can help to limit and reduce the amount of swelling you experience. 
• Staying hydrated – Adequate hydration helps your body to not hold on to excess fluid. Drinking plenty of water will help to promote the movement of lymphatic fluid around the body.

Exercising regularly

Regular exercise will help to treat and manage Lymphoedema by:

• Promoting lymphatic circulation – Movement encourages the movement of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. This will help to reduce swelling and improve lymphatic drainage 
• Improving muscle strength and flexibility – Strong muscles are more effective at supporting the lymphatic system, allowing for the movement of lymphatic fluid throughout the body 
• Maintaining a healthy weight – Along with a balanced diet, exercise will also help with maintaining a healthy and stable weight. Excess weight can exacerabate Lymphoedema by putting additional strain on the lymphatic system.