Lasting improvement from lymphoedema surgery
Lymphoedema is a long-term condition where lymph fluid builds up in the tissues. It can cause swelling, discomfort, and a marked impact on day-to-day life. There is no simple cure, but specialist lymphoedema surgery combined with good conservative care may offer meaningful and lasting improvement for selected patients.
The Great North Lymphatic Centre is a consultant-led lymphoedema treatment and lymphatic surgery service based in the North of England. Consultant plastic surgeons with extensive NHS experience in reconstructive microsurgery and lymphatic supermicrosurgery founded and lead the service. We use a structured assessment pathway, including ICG lymphography, to understand your pattern of lymphoedema and to plan treatment.
We may offer lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA), vascularised lymph node transfer (VLNT) and, where appropriate, lymphoedema liposuction and selective debulking. We match these options to your disease pattern and your goals. Our focus is on clear explanations, careful surgery and long-term control of lymphoedema.
Consultant-led diagnosis, ICG lymphography and advanced lymphatic surgery for people living with lymphoedema.
Lymphoedema surgerytreatments we offer
Long term control
We are a consultant-led, private centre dedicated to helping people living with lymphatic disorders regain comfort, confidence, and function. Our ethos is simple: evidence-based techniques, careful surgery and structured, supportive follow-up focused on comfort, function and long-term control of lymphoedema.
01Consultant-delivered care
From the first conversation to follow-up, you see the consultants who assess, plan and perform your operation. This supports continuity, clear decision-making and accountability.
02ICG-guided, personalised planning
We use ICG lymphography to map lymphatic flow to help select the procedure or combination of procedures most likely to help. We integrate this with your symptoms, examination and current conservative treatment.
03NHS and international experience
Our consultants hold substantive NHS posts in reconstructive microsurgery and have completed additional international fellowships in lymphatic surgery, with referrals for complex lymphatic cases from across the North East and the wider North of England.
04Experience with cancer-related lymphoedema
In their NHS roles, our surgeons also perform immediate lymphatic reconstruction (ILR) at the time of axillary surgery for breast cancer and use ICG lymphography for assessment and surveillance, which informs discussions for people worried about breast cancer-related lymphoedema.
Clarity
Open and Honest
In Safe Hands
Next steps
To discuss your suitability for lymphoedema surgery, contact our team. We will review your history, current treatment and goals, and advise on the most appropriate next steps at our luxury medical centre at The Beverley in Gateshead.
Complete our contact form to discuss your suitability for lymphoedema surgery.