Lymph Node Removal
In Singapore

Lymph node removal, also known as lymphadenectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or more lymph nodes from your body. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the immune system, and they help fight off infections and filter harmful substances.

Dr Jesse Hu
Consultant General Surgeon, Breast, Thyroid & Endocrine Surgery

Common Reasons for Lymph Node Removal

There are several reasons why the removal of a lymph node or multiple lymph nodes may be necessary. Some of the most common reasons include:

Cancer diagnosis and treatment

One of the primary reasons for lymph node removal is to diagnose and treat various types of cancer. When cancer cells spread from their original site to other parts of the body, they often travel through the lymphatic system and can become trapped in the lymph nodes. By removing and examining affected lymph nodes, doctors can determine the extent of cancer spread and plan appropriate treatment measures. In some cases, the removal of cancerous lymph nodes can also help prevent further spread of the disease.

Infection control

Lymph nodes can become infected and swollen due to bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. In severe cases, when conservative treatments such as antibiotics fail to resolve the infection, surgical removal of the affected lymph nodes may be necessary.

Chronic inflammatory conditions

Some chronic inflammatory conditions, such as sarcoidosis or Castleman disease, can cause lymph nodes to become enlarged and painful. In these cases, removal of the affected lymph nodes may be required to alleviate symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Types of Lymph Node Removal Surgeries

There are several types of lymph node removal surgeries, depending on the location of the affected lymph nodes and the extent of the disease. Some of the most common types include:

This is a minimally invasive procedure where only the sentinel lymph node (the first lymph node to which cancer cells are most likely to spread) is removed and examined to determine if cancer has spread. If cancer is not found, no further lymph node removal may be necessary.

In this procedure, only the lymph nodes that are directly affected by cancer or infection are removed. This approach aims to minimize the number of lymph nodes removed and reduce potential complications and side effects.

This type of surgery involves the removal of all lymph nodes within a specific region of the body. This procedure is commonly performed for cancers that have a high likelihood of spreading to nearby lymph nodes, such as breast cancer or melanoma.

This extensive procedure involves the removal of all lymph nodes and surrounding tissues in an area. It’s typically reserved for advanced cancers or infections that have spread extensively throughout the lymphatic system.

What to Know Before Lymph Node Removal Surgery

Before undergoing lymph node removal surgery, it’s essential to be well-informed about the procedure, its risks, and potential outcomes. Here are some aspects to consider:

  • Discuss your medical history and medications with your doctor: Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions and medications you are currently taking, as these can affect your surgery and recovery.
  • Understand the purpose of the surgery: Ensure you have a clear understanding of why you need lymph node removal surgery and what your doctor hopes to achieve with the procedure. This will help you set realistic expectations and make informed decisions about your treatment.
  • Ask about the risks and potential complications: Like any surgical procedure, lymph node removal surgery carries some risks and potential complications. Discuss these with your doctor to fully understand the possible outcomes and weigh the benefits and risks of the surgery.

The Process of Lymph Node Removal Surgery

The specific process of lymph node removal surgery will depend on the type of surgery you are undergoing and the location of the affected lymph nodes. The general steps involved in the procedure are as follows:

Preparation

Before the surgery, you will be given anaesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. The type of anaesthesia used will depend on the extent of the surgery and your overall health – it may be local, regional, or general anaesthesia.

Surgical procedure

Your surgeon will make an incision in the skin to access the affected lymph nodes. The exact location and size of the incision will depend on the type of lymph node removal surgery being performed. The surgeon will then carefully remove the lymph nodes and any surrounding tissue if necessary.

Closure

Once the lymph nodes have been removed, your surgeon will close the incision using sutures, staples, or surgical glue. A dressing will be applied to protect the wound and keep it clean.

Recovery and Aftercare Following Lymph Node Removal Surgery

The recovery process following lymph node removal surgery will vary depending on the type of surgery and your overall health. Here are some general guidelines for post-surgery care and recovery:

  • Pain management: You may experience some pain and discomfort at the surgical site. Your doctor will likely prescribe pain medication to help manage your pain. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and do not hesitate to ask for additional pain relief if needed.
  • Wound care: Proper wound care helps with a smooth recovery and can prevent infection. Follow your doctor’s instructions on providing proper care for your surgical incision.
  • Activity restrictions: Your doctor may recommend certain activity restrictions following lymph node removal surgery, depending on the extent of the procedure and your overall health. Follow these guidelines to prevent complications and promote healing.
  • Follow-up appointments: Be sure to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. These appointments allow your doctor to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

Risks and Complications of Lymph Node Removal

As with any surgery, lymph node removal carries some risks and potential complications. Some of the most common risks associated with lymph node removal surgery include:

  • Infection: There is a risk of infection at the surgical site, particularly if proper wound care is not maintained. Infections can usually be treated with antibiotics, but in severe cases, additional surgical intervention may be necessary.
  • Bleeding: Some bleeding is expected during and after surgery. Excessive bleeding can sometimes occur in rare cases and may require additional surgical intervention.
  • Lymphedema: Lymphedema is a condition where excess fluid accumulates in the affected limb or body part, leading to swelling, discomfort, and reduced mobility. This condition is more likely to occur after extensive lymph node removal surgery or when lymph nodes are removed in the groin or armpit area.
  • Nerve damage: In rare cases, nerves near the surgical site can be damaged during the procedure, leading to numbness, weakness, or altered sensation in the affected limb or body part.
  • Blood clots: There is a risk of developing blood clots in the legs or lungs following any surgery, including lymph node removal. Your healthcare team will take steps to minimize this risk, such as encouraging early mobilization and prescribing blood-thinning medications if necessary.

Long-Term Effects and Considerations After Lymph Node Removal

The long-term effects of lymph node removal will depend on the extent of the surgery and the location of the affected lymph nodes. Some general considerations include:

Lymphedema management

If you develop lymphedema after lymph node removal surgery, ongoing management may be necessary to help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. This may include compression garments, specialized exercises, or manual lymphatic drainage.

Reduced immune function

Since lymph nodes play a crucial role in the immune system, removing them can reduce the body’s ability to fight off infections. Take steps to minimize the risk of infection, such as practising good hygiene and avoiding contact with sick individuals.

Cancer surveillance

If you underwent lymph node removal surgery for cancer, ongoing cancer surveillance will be necessary to monitor for the recurrence or spread of the disease. This may involve regular imaging tests, blood work, or physical exams.

Emotional and psychological impact

The physical and emotional impact of undergoing lymph node removal surgery can be significant. Seek support from family, friends, or a mental health professional if you are struggling with the emotional aftermath of the procedure.

Costs and insurance coverage for Lymph Node Removal in Singapore

The cost of lymph node removal surgery in Singapore can vary depending on the type of procedure, the complexity of the surgery, and the number of lymph nodes removed. Generally speaking, patients may need to pay for hospitalization fees, surgeon fees, laboratory tests, medication costs and other related expenses. Consult with your insurance provider beforehand to determine what is covered under your policy.

Our clinics are under the following

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For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners.
Please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plans.

Dr Jesse Hu

Consultant General Surgeon, Breast, Thyroid & Endocrine Surgery

Dr Jesse specialises in managing both benign and malignant breast and thyroid conditions, which also includes breast pain, breast lumps, breastfeeding problems, neck lumps, amongst others.

Her dual expertise in cancer removal and plastic surgery techniques expands the design of individualized treatments, leading to holistic patient outcomes.

Dr Jesse was part of the teaching faculties of both NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, where she teaches and mentors the next generation of medical students and trainee doctors.

  • Surgical training at NUS School of Medicine
  • FRCS (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons) Edinburgh, UK in 2014
  • Completed 2 Health Manpower Development Program (HMDP) fellowships at Oxford University Hospital, UK in 2016

Dr Jesse is recognized as an authority in breast cancer and thyroid surgery and a sought-after conference speaker.

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