Feasibility of liposuction for treatment of arm lymphedema from breast cancer: A prospective study and review of the literature

Lymphedema is a dreaded complication of breast cancer treatment affecting 20% of women having axillary node dissection. We explored the feasibility of liposuction to reduce volume and thus arm lymphedema. A prospective trial of women with unilateral arm lymphedema from breast cancer treatment was conducted. Arm measurements, volumes (water displacement and geometric calculation), muscle strength differences and quality of life/functionality were measured pre-operatively and post-operatively at 6 weeks, 6 months and yearly up to 5 years. Six patients had liposuction. Average age was 52.8 yrs. Average percent volume reductions at 6 weeks, 6 months and 1 year were 70%, 47%, 71% mls geometrically and 63%, 18%, 54% by water displacement. 1 patient had cellulitis at 4 months and had no other adverse events. Quality of life and functionality were not statistically significant. Pain decreased. Mean grip strength improved. Liposuction can safely reduce volume of arm lymphedema and may improve functionality/quality of life. Larger studies with longer follow-up are required to validate the durability of these early results.