Some discomfort is expected after VLNT, but pain levels are typically manageable with prescribed medication. Since VLNT involves both a donor and a recipient site, patients may experience soreness, swelling, and tightness in both areas. However, most report that discomfort is temporary and improves significantly within the first few weeks. Compression garments, lymphatic massage, and gentle movement can aid in reducing discomfort during recovery.

How Many Surgeries Will I Need?

Most patients require only one VLNT procedureto improve their lymphedema symptoms significantlys. However, additional treatments, such as lymphovenous bypass surgery, may be recommended depending on the severity of the condition. Your surgeon will develop a treatment plan based on your unique situation to achieve the best possible outcome with the fewest procedures.

When Will I Start to Feel Relief?

Recovery from VLNT is gradual. While some patients notice early improvements within a few months, full benefits typically develop over 6 to 12 months as the transplanted lymph nodes integrate and promote new lymphatic growth. Swelling reduction, improved limb function, and decreased risk of infection become more noticeable over time. Patients who follow post-operative care guidelines, including compression therapy and lymphatic drainage massage, often experience better and faster results.

Can I Combine a VLNT With Other Procedures?

VLNT can be combined with other procedures, especially for patients with advanced lymphedema. Many individuals undergo VLNT alongside lymphovenous bypass surgery, which helps redirect excess lymphatic fluid, or debulking procedures, such as liposuction, to reduce fibrotic tissue buildup. In some cases, VLNT may also be integrated into breast reconstruction for patients who have developed lymphedema following mastectomy. During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your condition and recommend whether a combined surgical approach is right for you.

What Are the Risks Associated With a VLNT?

Potential risks include infection, delayed wound healing, fluid buildup (seroma), or donor-site complications such as mild swelling or numbness. In very rare cases, the transplanted lymph nodes may not integrate successfully, leading to minimal improvement. However, with proper post-operative care and close monitoring, most patients recover smoothly and experience long-term benefits.

Will VLNT Restore Full Function And Appearance To The Affected Limb?

VLNT significantly reduces swelling, improves function, and enhances limb contour, but results vary based on the severity of lymphedema and individual healing factors. While some patients regain near-normal mobility and appearance, others may continue to experience mild residual swelling and require ongoing compression therapy and manual lymphatic drainage. VLNT aims to provide lasting relief, improve quality of life, and slow disease progression, making daily activities easier and more comfortable.

How Soon After Cancer Treatment Can I Get VLNT?

The timing of VLNT after cancer treatment depends on several factors, including the type of cancer, the extent of lymphatic damage, and your overall health. In most cases, surgeons recommend waiting at least 6 to 12 months after completing treatments like chemotherapy or radiation to allow the body time to heal and reduce inflammation. However, earlier intervention may be considered if lymphedema symptoms are severe or significantly impact daily life.

New Jersey & New York

Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT)

Name: East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery
Brand: East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5.0 (71 reviews)

Relief is Possible: How Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT) Can Restore Comfort and Mobility

Lymphedema isn’t just a condition; it’s a daily battle. The discomfort, swelling, and limitations can make it feel like life will never be the same. However, advancements in lymphatic surgery are changing that reality. Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT) is one of the most innovative surgical options available, offering real, lasting relief for those struggling with lymphedema.

At ECAPS, we specialize in multiple forms of lymphatic surgery, helping patients in New Jersey, New York City, and around the world reclaim comfort, mobility, and confidence. With expertise in VLNT, our team is here to guide you toward a future where life feels like yours again.

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What is a Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT)?

Lymph nodes are harvested from another area of the body — often the abdomen, groin, neck, or armpit — and are transferred to the extremity with lymphedema as a free flap. The lymph nodes are taken with an artery and a vein to keep them alive. Those blood vessels are then reconnected to vessels where the nodes are placed. In the short term, the transferred lymph nodes act like a sump pump to absorb excess fluid in the nearby soft tissues. Over time, they stimulate new lymphatic channels to grow. As with lymphovenous bypass, patients see significant improvement in the risk of infection, decreased need for compression garments, and reduction in the limb circumference and weight.

How Does VLNT Differ From Other Lymphedema Treatments?

Lymphedema management has traditionally relied on conservative treatments like compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, and lifestyle modifications to control swelling and discomfort. While these methods can help manage symptoms, they do not address the underlying cause, which is damaged or missing lymphatic pathways.

Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT) is a surgical solution that actively restores lymphatic function. Unlike lymphovenous bypass, which reroutes lymph fluid into nearby veins, VLNT involves transferring healthy lymph nodes from one area of the body to the affected limb. These transferred nodes stimulate new lymphatic vessel growth, improving fluid drainage and reducing swelling over time.

Who Benefits Most From VLNT, And What Long-Term Improvements Can They Expect?

VLNT is best suited for patients with moderate to severe lymphedema who have not achieved sufficient relief from conservative treatments. Those who develop lymphedema following cancer treatments are often excellent candidates, as are individuals with genetic lymphedema that significantly impacts their quality of life.

Patients who undergo VLNT often experience a substantial reduction in limb swelling, improved mobility, and decreased reliance on compression garments. Over time, the transplanted lymph nodes integrate into the existing lymphatic system, promoting natural drainage and reducing the risk of infections like cellulitis. While results vary, VLNT has the potential to restore function and make everyday activities feel easier again.

How Do I Prepare For VLNT?

Preparing for VLNT begins weeks before surgery. Your surgeon will provide pre-operative instructions which, for most, include:

Optimizing health: Maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in light activity can support healing. If you smoke, quitting before surgery is crucial, as smoking can impair circulation and slow recovery.
Adjusting medications if necessary: Certain medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be paused or adjusted before surgery. Always consult with your doctor before making any changes.
Preparing for post-op care: Arrange for a friend or family member to assist you after surgery, as you’ll need to limit movement in the donor and recipient sites.

Where Should I Start?

The first step toward VLNT is a comprehensive consultation with an experienced lymphatic surgeon. At ECAPS, we conduct a thorough evaluation, including imaging tests, to assess your lymphatic function and determine the best surgical approach for your unique case. Our team will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and treatment goals to ensure VLNT is the right fit for you.

During this consultation, we’ll provide a detailed roadmap of what to expect before, during, and after surgery, giving you the confidence to take the next step toward long-term relief. Whether you’re in New York, New Jersey, or traveling from another part of the world, ECAPS is here to guide you on your journey to recovery.

What Can I Expect on the Day of VLNT Surgery?

VLNT is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes between 4 and 6 hours, depending on the complexity of the transfer. On the day of surgery, you’ll arrive at one of the New Jersey or New York City surgical centers, where our team will conduct final assessments and mark the donor and recipient sites. Once anesthesia is administered, your surgeon will carefully harvest a cluster of healthy lymph nodes from a donor site. These nodes are then transferred to the affected limb, where they are reconnected to nearby blood vessels. After the procedure, your incisions will be closed, and you’ll be moved to recovery for monitoring as you wake up from anesthesia. Most patients stay overnight for observation before being discharged the next day.

What Does Recovery Look Like for VLNT?

In the first few days, mild to moderate swelling, discomfort, and limited mobility are expected in both the donor and recipient sites, but these symptoms are manageable with pain medication and compression therapy. As the weeks progress, swelling will begin to subside, and many patients notice early improvements in limb function. Within the first few months, new lymphatic connections form, improving fluid drainage and reducing the need for compression garments. Long-term, significant improvement is typically seen within 6 to 12 months, with continued benefits over time.

How Much Does a Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT) Cost in New Jersey and New York City?

The cost of a Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT) in New Jersey and New York City can vary. Because VLNT is a highly specialized microsurgical procedure, costs typically range from $20,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on individual patient needs.

Insurance coverage for VLNT varies, as some providers classify it as reconstructive surgery while others may consider it elective. At ECAPS, we work closely with patients to explore financing options and assist with insurance inquiries to determine coverage eligibility. During your consultation, we will provide a personalized cost estimate based on your specific treatment plan, ensuring full pricing and financial planning transparency.

Why Should I Choose ECAPS for VLNT?

At East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery (ECAPS), we are committed to providing world-class, patient-focused care for individuals seeking lasting relief from lymphedema. With state-of-the-art locations in New Jersey and New York City, our board-certified plastic surgeons specialize in advanced lymphatic procedures, including VLNT, to restore function and improve quality of life. Beyond our technical expertise, we recognize the physical and emotional toll of lymphedema, which is why we offer personalized, compassionate care tailored to your unique journey. By blending cutting-edge microsurgical techniques with a deep commitment to patient wellness, ECAPS delivers innovative, results-driven solutions that prioritize both your recovery and long-term health.

Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT) FAQ’S

Some discomfort is expected after VLNT, but pain levels are typically manageable with prescribed medication. Since VLNT involves both a donor and a recipient site, patients may experience soreness, swelling, and tightness in both areas. However, most report that discomfort is temporary and improves significantly within the first few weeks. Compression garments, lymphatic massage, and gentle movement can aid in reducing discomfort during recovery.
Most patients require only one VLNT procedureto improve their lymphedema symptoms significantlys. However, additional treatments, such as lymphovenous bypass surgery, may be recommended depending on the severity of the condition. Your surgeon will develop a treatment plan based on your unique situation to achieve the best possible outcome with the fewest procedures.
Recovery from VLNT is gradual. While some patients notice early improvements within a few months, full benefits typically develop over 6 to 12 months as the transplanted lymph nodes integrate and promote new lymphatic growth. Swelling reduction, improved limb function, and decreased risk of infection become more noticeable over time. Patients who follow post-operative care guidelines, including compression therapy and lymphatic drainage massage, often experience better and faster results.
VLNT can be combined with other procedures, especially for patients with advanced lymphedema. Many individuals undergo VLNT alongside lymphovenous bypass surgery, which helps redirect excess lymphatic fluid, or debulking procedures, such as liposuction, to reduce fibrotic tissue buildup. In some cases, VLNT may also be integrated into breast reconstruction for patients who have developed lymphedema following mastectomy. During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your condition and recommend whether a combined surgical approach is right for you.
Potential risks include infection, delayed wound healing, fluid buildup (seroma), or donor-site complications such as mild swelling or numbness. In very rare cases, the transplanted lymph nodes may not integrate successfully, leading to minimal improvement. However, with proper post-operative care and close monitoring, most patients recover smoothly and experience long-term benefits.
VLNT significantly reduces swelling, improves function, and enhances limb contour, but results vary based on the severity of lymphedema and individual healing factors. While some patients regain near-normal mobility and appearance, others may continue to experience mild residual swelling and require ongoing compression therapy and manual lymphatic drainage. VLNT aims to provide lasting relief, improve quality of life, and slow disease progression, making daily activities easier and more comfortable.
The timing of VLNT after cancer treatment depends on several factors, including the type of cancer, the extent of lymphatic damage, and your overall health. In most cases, surgeons recommend waiting at least 6 to 12 months after completing treatments like chemotherapy or radiation to allow the body time to heal and reduce inflammation. However, earlier intervention may be considered if lymphedema symptoms are severe or significantly impact daily life.

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With convenient locations in New Jersey and New York City, we proudly serve patients locally and worldwide. Call us or fill out the online contact form to schedule your consultation today.

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