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

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

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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:

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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

"This was my first time meeting Dr. Fries, he did a dye test on my arm. He explained everything very well and i love his nurse Natalie. I recommend PRMA to anyone who needs breast reconstruction or who has lymphedema. So happy to have the doctors at PRMA work on me through this cancer journey."

Amanda Benavidez

"I have been a patient at PRMA for 9 years and can’t say enough about the doctors and nurses. Dr. Fries is new and has helped with my Lymphedema and is truly exceptional at what he does. Strongly recommend"

Joley Day-Mayfield

"Dr Fries substantially improved my lymphedema symptoms which developed nine years after I survived triple negative breast cancer and that was not responding to compression therapy. I am a lawyer whose swelling made wearing suit jackets impossible. I am back in the courtroom! Dr Fries is also a successful health care law advocate, having been instrumental in gaining Medicare coverage for lymphedema treatment."

Cynthia Eva Hujar Orr

Trusted Solutions

For Long-Term Comfort

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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 Surgeon

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

Dr. Anton Fries

Dr. Anton Fries, MD, PhD, is a highly specialized microsurgeon focused on advanced lymphedema surgery and lymphatic reconstruction. With world-class training in microsurgery and a patient-centered approach, he helps patients reduce swelling, restore function, and regain quality of life after cancer treatment.

Where to Find Us

9635 Huebner Rd.
San Antonio, TX 78240
726-336-2429

540 Madison Oaks, Suite 600
San Antonio, TX 78258
726-336-2429

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Your Journey Matters

At PRMA, we don’t just manage conditions—we help rebuild lives. Let’s explore your options together.

Call Now: 726-336-2429

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.