5 Years Post LVA: What Surgery Did (and Didn’t) Do

5 Years Post LVA: What Surgery Did (and Didn’t) Do

Following the surgery, my leg’s swelling rapidly reduced to just 2–3cm excess and 14% volume difference when I was next measured for compression garments. Initially, I was amazed by the results. However, being completely honest, the swelling has gradually rebounded over time. One year post-surgery, my excess measured around 20%. Two years after, it increased to 24–27%. Now, at the five-year mark, it has returned to approximately 30%.

Pros of the surgery:

• The scarring is minimal, barely visible, and healed with little pain

• My leg drains swelling much quicker and more effectively—usually overnight—than before

• The initial reduction eased a lot of pressure and weight on my joints and skin

• The surgery was straightforward and relatively stress-free

• Without the surgery, my leg might have worsened beyond the 30% excess I experience now

• Having the surgery gave me a sense of agency—actively addressing my lymphoedema rather than wondering “what if”

• 87% reduction of cellulitis after LVA has taken place

Cons of the surgery:

• I still need to wear Class 3 compression stockings daily, alongside other self-management strategies

• Treatments like SLD/MLD remain less effective post-surgery

• Many pre-existing symptoms (tight skin, heaviness, swelling, heat sensitivity) persist

• Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, follow-up care was limited, which may have impacted outcomes

• An expensive surgery which is not available on the NHS, as it is in Wales

Since the surgery, I’ve noticed the swelling has shifted from primarily the front of my leg to the back as well as moving out from my ankle towards my thigh. While I can’t definitively say whether my leg is better or worse overall, I believe that if surgery is something you’re considering early on or while still young and healthy, it’s worth exploring. I’m glad I went through with it because otherwise, I’d always wonder about the possibilities.

Though I am somewhat disappointed by the rebound in swelling, I do believe the surgery has improved my leg’s natural drainage and slowed its deterioration. In the long term, I hope it will reduce swelling progression.

As a performer, body image and mental health are deeply important to me. While the surgery didn’t “fix” these, it did temporarily ease some of the pressure and emotional weight I carried.

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