Is a Vascular Lymph Node Transfer Painful?

Patients undergoing a vascular lymph node transfer will be under general anesthesia during the procedure, so no pain is felt at that time. However, patients may experience soreness, swelling, and tightness at both the donor and recipient sites. Pain management typically involves prescribed medications and over-the-counter analgesics, with most discomfort subsiding within a few weeks. Additionally, the use of advanced microsurgical techniques minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues, which aids in reducing post-operative pain.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

The process generally includes an initial consultation, pre-operative evaluations, surgery, and multiple follow-up visits to monitor healing and lymphatic function. Patients may also require ongoing lymphedema therapy, including compression garments and physical therapy to optimize results. Long-term follow-ups ensure the transferred lymph nodes are effectively integrating and functioning properly, with some patients benefiting from additional interventions depending on their response to treatment.

How Long Until I See Results?

The timeline for seeing results after a vascular lymph node transfer varies depending on the severity of lymphedema and the body’s healing response. While some patients notice early improvements in swelling and limb mobility within a few weeks, the full benefits of the procedure typically take several months to develop. As the newly transferred lymph nodes integrate with the existing lymphatic system, fluid drainage gradually improves, and symptoms such as heaviness, tightness, and swelling continue to subside. Physical therapy and post-operative care play a crucial role in optimizing results, with some patients experiencing continued improvements for up to a year after surgery.

Can I Combine a Vascular Lymph Node Transfer With Other Procedures?

Yes, a vascular lymph node transfer can be combined with other reconstructive procedures, such as the following: DIEP Flap Reconstruction: Restores breast shape using natural tissue while addressing lymphedema. Liposuction for lymphoedema: Helps reduce excess fluid buildup and improve limb contour. Breast Revision Surgery: Adjusts or refines prior breast reconstruction results for improved symmetry and appearance. During your consultation at either our New Jersey or New York City office, our surgeons will assess your specific needs and determine the best combination of procedures for your safety and well-being.

Special Considerations for Vascular Lymph Node Transfer

Vascularized lymph node transfer is a relatively new procedure in the United States, which means that everyone may not have the same results. However, Early evidence is promising and much more successful than older techniques. Vascular lymph node transfers are complicated procedures, and not everyone is a candidate for surgery. As with any surgical procedure, potential complications can occur. Infection, bleeding, blood clots, fluid collections, unsightly scars, and even lymphedema of the area where the lymph nodes were harvested are all possible side effects. However, we at ECAPS believe that the benefits for good candidates far outweigh the risks.

New Jersey & New York

Vascular Lymph Node Transfer

Name: East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery
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Vascular Lymph Node Transfer: The Potential Cure to Lymphedema after Breast Cancer

Lymphedema is a common and often debilitating condition that can develop after breast cancer treatment, particularly following mastectomy or lymph node removal. Chronic swelling, discomfort, and restricted mobility in the arm or chest can significantly impact daily life. At East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery (ECAPS) in New Jersey and New York City, our surgeons offer Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT), a microsurgical procedure that restores lymphatic function by transplanting healthy lymph nodes to affected areas. By improving lymphatic drainage, VLNT provides long-term relief, enhances mobility, and helps patients regain confidence and comfort after breast cancer surgery.

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What is a Vascular Lymph Node Transfer?

Vascular lymph node transfer is a surgery to help cure lymphedema, a condition that can be caused by different treatments for breast cancer, namely axillary node dissections (removing lymph nodes from the armpit that may be cancerous) and radiation therapy (sometimes used to kill cancer cells in the armpit).

Lymphatic vessels carry fluid from the arm to the filters of the body called “lymph nodes.” When these lymphatic vessels are disrupted (either by surgery or radiation), the fluid sometimes doesn’t have anywhere to drain. This removal or disruption of the lymph nodes can cause scar tissue that compresses nerves and vessels in the area, which may result in symptoms of pain, numbness, swelling, heaviness, weakness, and overall decreased function of the affected arm. Lymphedema can also cause recurrent infections of the arm called “cellulitis” and, in some cases, may even cause cancer of the lymphatic channels called “lymphangiosarcoma.”

Until recently, the options for treating lymphedema in the United States were very limited. The only options for treating upper extremity lymphedema had been physical therapy, compression therapy, and massage therapy. Though these therapies have been used to help treat the symptoms of lymphedema, they are not cures.

Vascularized lymph node transfer has been performed in Europe for years. It is currently making its way into the U.S. market, where it is performed at the most advanced and forward-looking plastic surgery centers. East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery is proud to offer this life-altering surgery to our clients. Call us at 201.449.1000 or use our online form to schedule an appointment right now.

How Can a Vascular Lymph Node Transfer Benefit Me?

A Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer offers several significant benefits for patients suffering from lymphedema, particularly following breast cancer treatment. By transplanting healthy lymph nodes from one area of the body to the affected region, VLNT helps restore proper lymphatic drainage, reducing swelling, discomfort, and the risk of recurrent infections. This procedure can also improve tissue health, alleviate heaviness in the affected limb, and enhance overall mobility and function. Unlike traditional lymphedema management techniques that focus on symptom control, VLNT addresses the underlying cause of lymphatic dysfunction, potentially offering long-term relief. Additionally, when combined with microsurgical breast reconstruction, VLNT can contribute to a more natural aesthetic outcome while improving the patient’s quality of life.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Vascular Lymph Node Transfer?

You may be a candidate if one or more of the following are true:

You recently had breast cancer and have been diagnosed with lymphedema as a result
All scar tissue has fully matured, and post-operative edema has completely settled from your breast surgery (this usually takes at least 6 months)
You are not currently receiving chemotherapy
You have persistent, debilitating pain in the arm/armpit
You have had a number of infections due to lymphedema

An honest discussion of your full medical history at either our New Jersey or New York City office, including any medical conditions, previous surgeries or treatments, drug allergies, current medications, and use of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal substances with your East Coast plastic surgeon will help make your Lymph Node surgery successful. If you use tobacco, you are not a candidate for any elective procedure, as the risks double for those who use tobacco. We are happy to assist you in your quitting process, and once the blood is nicotine-free for 4 weeks, you may be considered for surgery.

What Does a Consultation Look Like?

During your consultation at one of our New Jersey or New York City locations, one of our board-certified plastic surgeons will perform a comprehensive evaluation, reviewing your medical history, previous cancer treatments, and the severity of your lymphedema.

Diagnostic imaging may be used to assess lymphatic function and determine if VLNT is the most appropriate treatment option for your condition. Our team will also discuss the procedure in detail, including potential benefits, risks, and expected recovery.

What Happens During a Vascular Lymph Node Transfer Procedure?

Vascular lymph node transfer is an inpatient surgery that is performed with general anesthesia. The process usually takes between 4 and 6 hours, depending on the amount of scar tissue you have, the extent of your disease, and your individual anatomy. The procedure can be combined with procedures like DIEP-FLAP for delayed breast reconstruction and treatment of lymphedema simultaneously.

Typically, during this procedure, 1-3 healthy lymph nodes are harvested and detached from an unaffected site (such as the groin) and microsurgically placed into the area where the lymph nodes had been removed. Using microsurgical techniques, the surgeon then connects the blood supply of those lymph nodes to blood vessels in the diseased area, stimulating new lymphatic channels to grow. This procedure has shown promising long-term results with the reduction of swelling in the arm and has also shown an overall decrease (if not complete resolution) of lymphedema symptoms.

Vascular Lymph Node Transfer Recovery

You should be able to walk immediately following surgery. Swelling and discoloration may occur but resolve within one month. The caring professionals at ECAPS will recommend that they follow you closely in the hospital and office to evaluate your healing process. A detailed list of normal symptoms, signs of complications, and instructions for recovery will be given to you to ensure that your recovery process is safe and successful. As always, it is imperative that you follow the doctor’s orders for the best possible outcome.

How Much Does a Vascular Lymph Node Transfer Cost in New Jersey?

The cost of a Vascular Lymph Node Transfer in New Jersey and New York City varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, the surgical facility, and the experience of the surgeon performing the procedure. While prices can range from $20,000 to $40,000, coverage by insurance providers is not always guaranteed, as some classify VLNT as an investigational procedure. However, some plans may offer partial coverage, particularly if the surgery is deemed medically necessary to treat lymphedema. During your consultation at East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery, our team will provide a cost estimate and assist you in understanding your insurance options and potential financing solutions.

Why Choose East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery?

East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery (ECAPS) in New Jersey and New York City distinguishes itself through a commitment to individualized, patient-centered care. Our mission emphasizes providing safe, respectful, and personalized surgical solutions, particularly for transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. Our practice comprises a team of board-certified plastic surgeons with specialized expertise in various fields, including breast reconstruction, gender affirmation surgeries, and lymphatic surgery. ECAPS is dedicated to delivering superlative results by integrating advanced surgical techniques with a compassionate approach, ensuring each patient receives care tailored to their unique needs and goals.

Vascular Lymph Node Transfer FAQ’S

Patients undergoing a vascular lymph node transfer will be under general anesthesia during the procedure, so no pain is felt at that time. However, patients may experience soreness, swelling, and tightness at both the donor and recipient sites. Pain management typically involves prescribed medications and over-the-counter analgesics, with most discomfort subsiding within a few weeks. Additionally, the use of advanced microsurgical techniques minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues, which aids in reducing post-operative pain.
The process generally includes an initial consultation, pre-operative evaluations, surgery, and multiple follow-up visits to monitor healing and lymphatic function. Patients may also require ongoing lymphedema therapy, including compression garments and physical therapy to optimize results. Long-term follow-ups ensure the transferred lymph nodes are effectively integrating and functioning properly, with some patients benefiting from additional interventions depending on their response to treatment.
The timeline for seeing results after a vascular lymph node transfer varies depending on the severity of lymphedema and the body’s healing response. While some patients notice early improvements in swelling and limb mobility within a few weeks, the full benefits of the procedure typically take several months to develop. As the newly transferred lymph nodes integrate with the existing lymphatic system, fluid drainage gradually improves, and symptoms such as heaviness, tightness, and swelling continue to subside. Physical therapy and post-operative care play a crucial role in optimizing results, with some patients experiencing continued improvements for up to a year after surgery.
Yes, a vascular lymph node transfer can be combined with other reconstructive procedures, such as the following:
- DIEP Flap Reconstruction: Restores breast shape using natural tissue while addressing lymphedema.
- Liposuction for lymphoedema: Helps reduce excess fluid buildup and improve limb contour.
- Breast Revision Surgery: Adjusts or refines prior breast reconstruction results for improved symmetry and appearance.
During your consultation at either our New Jersey or New York City office, our surgeons will assess your specific needs and determine the best combination of procedures for your safety and well-being.
Vascularized lymph node transfer is a relatively new procedure in the United States, which means that everyone may not have the same results. However, Early evidence is promising and much more successful than older techniques.

Vascular lymph node transfers are complicated procedures, and not everyone is a candidate for surgery. As with any surgical procedure, potential complications can occur. Infection, bleeding, blood clots, fluid collections, unsightly scars, and even lymphedema of the area where the lymph nodes were harvested are all possible side effects. However, we at ECAPS believe that the benefits for good candidates far outweigh the risks.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re experiencing symptoms of lymphoedema, it’s best to consult with one of our professionals as soon as possible. We’ll get you started on treatment and help you live a happier, healthier life. We have offices in New Jersey and New York City; please feel free to call us at one of our locations or fill out the online form.

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