Lymphedema Isn’t Just Manageable. It’s Treatable.

Explore surgical solutions that help you feel lighter, move freer, and live more comfortably.

Request a Lymphedema Surgery Consultation

Why People Seek Lymphedema Treatment at PRMA

Chronic swelling doesn’t just affect your body, it limits how you live your life. After breast cancer, many women experience:

Swelling

You may notice persistent puffiness or fullness in your arm or chest that doesn’t go away with rest or elevation.

Heaviness or Aching

The affected area can feel weighed down, sore, or unusually tired—even after minimal activity.

Recurring Infections

Frequent skin infections like cellulitis can flare up without warning, often requiring antibiotics or ER visits.

Reduced Mobility

Stiffness or tightness may make it harder to move your arm freely or perform everyday tasks.

What Life After Lymphedema Can Look Like

"I’m super excited and love the results and feel amazing. I want to let anyone listening to this know that I had the worst anxiety before my surgery thinking of everything you can imagine. I can say that this was 100% the right choice for me I love the way that I look. The process was much easier than what I expected."

Laurie

Yorba Linda, CA

"I came all the way from California to see Dr. Gassman. He and his team are all amazing. He was very thorough on my options and gave me his opinion on the best route to go. I am still under care with him and will have another minor procedure in the future. He has the best bedside manner and is super easy to talk to. Thanks to the whole team for taking care of me!"

Nataushia

Red Bluff, CA

"I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Gassman and his staff. I had a very positive experience with my appointments and my surgery. Everything was explained to me in detail. The staff was quick to get back to me with any questions. The pain protocol used was excellent."

Tricia

San Antonio, TX

Trusted Solutions

For Long-Term Comfort

Lymphovenous Anastomosis (LVA)

LVA connects working lymphatic vessels to nearby veins to help drain excess fluid from the limb. It’s a minimally invasive procedure ideal for early-stage lymphedema and typically doesn’t require an overnight hospital stay. Many patients experience reduced swelling and less dependence on compression therapy.

Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT)

VLNT moves healthy lymph nodes from another area of your body (like the abdomen) to the swollen limb to restore drainage and reduce inflammation. This option is best for more advanced lymphedema and involves a short hospital stay for monitoring. Over time, most patients report fewer infections, less swelling, and better range of motion.

You Deserve Relief

You’ve lived long enough with swelling, pain, and daily discomfort. Let’s talk about what’s possible with real solutions, not just temporary fixes.

Book Your Consultation

What Happens Next: A Clear Look at Your Care Path

From evaluation to recovery, our process is thorough, compassionate, and personalized:

Initial Consultation:

You’ll meet with a PRMA surgeon to review your symptoms and confirm if surgery is a good fit for your type of lymphedema.

Diagnostic Imaging

We’ll schedule an MRI and a lymphoscintigraphy scan to assess fluid buildup and lymphatic function.

Surgical Planning Visit:

You’ll return for a quick in-office ICG scan to visualize lymph flow and finalize the most effective surgical approach.

Surgery Day

Depending on your plan, you’ll undergo LVA or VLNT with our expert microsurgeons—either outpatient or with a short hospital stay.

Recovery & Rehabilitation:

Light compression is used early on, followed by personalized therapy to support drainage and healing.

Ongoing Support

We’ll monitor your progress with follow-ups at 3, 6, and 12 months to ensure lasting results and symptom relief.

Meet Your Surgeons

Meet our world-class experts in lymphedema treatment who are ready to help you find relief.

Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo

Championing Advanced Breast Reconstruction Access Nationwide

Dr. Gary Arishita

Dedicated to Restoring Confidence Through Expert Reconstruction

Dr. Oscar Ochoa

Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon & Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)

Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo

Championing Advanced Breast Reconstruction Access Nationwide

Where to Find Us

9635 Huebner Rd.
San Antonio, TX 78240

540 Madison Oaks, Suite 600
San Antonio, TX 78258

Referring a Patient?

PRMA proudly partners with breast surgeons, oncologists, and certified lymphedema therapists. We offer:

Streamlined referral pathways
Collaborative care models
Microsurgical expertise you can trust

Refer A Patient

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes lymphedema after breast cancer?

Damage to lymphatic vessels during lymph node removal or radiation disrupts normal drainage, causing fluid buildup.

Am I a candidate for surgery?

If you’ve been diagnosed with secondary lymphedema and still have some lymphatic function, you may qualify for LVA or VLNT. We use specialized scans to determine eligibility.

Will surgery cure my lymphedema?

Surgical treatments at PRMA can significantly reduce swelling, improve mobility, and decrease the need for daily compression.

Is this covered by insurance?

Most major insurance plans cover lymphedema surgery. Our team can help verify your benefits and walk you through the process.

How long is the recovery?

Most patients resume full compression therapy within two weeks. Visible symptom improvement often begins within the first few months.