Hi. I wasn’t offered LVA when I had surgery or when I developed lymphoedema a year later. I was just given compression garments and 6 sessions of manual lymphatic drainage at a local centre. Some NHS trusts do offer the surgery alongside full axillary clearance but I think it’s rare. Some also offer LVA if lymphoedema develops later, but again, it’s rare. I believe it is offered in Wales. I did my own research and found the Oxford Lymphoedema Centre. There is a website to get more information. Yes, it is expensive but it may differ depending on what is needed so you’d need to contact them for a price if you do ever need it. It is best to contact them early if you do develop lymphoedema as surgery is more successful the earlier it’s caught. Having said that, you may never develop it, or you may be happy wearing garments and performing self massage, which helps a little. There are also machines that you can buy to help. Try not to worry but just be aware of any swelling at any stage later. Mine started in my fingers when I realised my ring was tight.
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