About us

Oxford Lymphoedema Practice

The three surgeons at the Oxford Lymphoedema Practice are specialist microsurgeons. As well as their role in treating lymphoedema, they all have other reconstructive plastic surgery commitments spanning hand surgery, lower limb reconstruction and head and neck surgery. All three have trained with international specialists in the field of lymphoedema including surgical collaborations with colleagues in Japan, North America, Europe, India, and Southeast Asia.

The team at the Oxford Lymphoedema Practice were the first surgeons to bring LVA supermicrosurgery to the UK, performing this surgery here since 2012. Since that time they have performed over 200 lymphoedema operations on patients from the UK and further afield. The Oxford Lymphoedema Practice surgeons continuously record their outcomes and optimise their techniques for the benefit of their patients. They contribute to published literature in the field of lymphoedema and are regular speakers at national and international lymphoedema conferences hosted through the British Lymphology Society, the Lymphoedema Support Network and local lymphoedema centres.

Introducing OLP

Surgical treatment of lymphoedema

Lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA)

This microsurgical bypass operation connects lymphatics to small veins in the skin allowing excess fluid to drain from the affected area. Whilst it is a very technical procedure it can restore the function of the lymphatic system and remove excess fluid from the limb. We have pioneered this operation under local anasthetic as a day case. It is suitable for patients with early disease.

Liposuction for lymphoedema (SAPL)

This surgery can produce a massive and permanent volume reduction in an arm or leg affected by lymphoedema. It is particulary successful in advanced longstanding disease where most of the swelling has turned to fat and protein. It is carried out with specialist training for assessment, surgical techniques and rehabilitation following surgery. It must be emphasised that this is very different from standard cosmetic liposuction. It can produce a long term and predictable volume reduction that is maintained by a special compression garment use.

Vascularized lymphnode transfer (VLNT)

We can transfer spare lymphatics from a healthy area of your body to the arm or leg with lymphoedema. We also join the healthy lymphatics to nearby blood vessels so the tissue remains healthy and can begin to regenerate lymphatics. The transferred lymphatic tissue can then restore the conduit and filter for lymph fluid. This operation may take some time to become fully effective as the new lymphatic system grows but is suitable for a range of stages of the disease.

Testimonials

PATIENT LF

It would be impossible for me to fully explain the difference that the improvement in my Lymphedema has made to my quality of life so far - Thank you!

PATIENT LF

PATIENT AC

Please thank Mr Gore who saw me for his very helpful letter, it is good to know that there is somewhere to turn to for clarity on lymphoedema

PATIENT AC

PATIENT GM

Without your surgery on my arm I don’t think I could of done this , I climbed Kilimanjaro on New Year’s Day

PATIENT GM

PATIENT DP

I think the service you have given me has been the best medical experience I have ever had, the team is very professional but with a really great empathy for the patient which makes one feel very comfortable and cared for.

PATIENT DP

PATIENT PH

My left leg is still staying soft and maintaining a good shape. I have noticed a reduction in my thigh area recently just by looking!

PATIENT PH

PATIENT VS

The surgery has made a big difference to my mobility, which has enabled me to do things that I want to do. The pain has lessened, which has improved my quality of life. Everyone in the practice I've had contact with has been kind and understanding. They've worked hard to make things better for me.

PATIENT VS

PATIENT SK

Many thanks for your wonderful service. You've changed my life by correcting my painful lymphoedema. Coming to see you was the best thing. All my thanks for making such a difference to my and our lives.

PATIENT SK

Meet the Surgeons

We are experts in the field of lymphoedema, and have trained extensively around the World. We are all united in the common goal of offering real solutions to people suffering from lymphoedema.

Explore

Understanding Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema is a disorder of the lymphatic system. This system is a natural circulation system in the body that helps to remove waste and cleanse the body. Often people only...

Case studies

Show how lymphoedema surgery at Oxford Lymphedema Practice can be life-changing. Please note that the names of our patients have been changed to protect their confidentiality.

Our Surgeons

Our surgeons have pioneered LVA, VLNT, SAPL & SAPL supermicrosurgery for lymphoedema in the UK, performing these operations since 2012.

Oxford Lymphoedema Practice Ltd

E [email protected]

T +44(0)1869 351300

Surgery address:

Nuffield Health, The Manor Hospital, Beech Road, Oxford, OX3 7RP

Office address:

Oxford Lymphoedema Practice, PO Box 1138, Oxford, OX1 9UN

© Oxford Lymphoedema Practice Ltd 2018