Lymphoedema Service
The Lymphoedema Service is based within the Diabetes Centre at Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. We provide assessment, treatment, management and support for people at risk of developing lymphoedema or have developed lymphoedema regardless of cause.
This service is provided by clinical nurse specialist in lymphoedema. We do not offer a service for paediatrics. The nearest specialist service is St Georges Hospital London.
The service operates Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4pm (excluding bank holidays).
The contact details for the service are 01305 255370. This is an answer phone service and we ask that you leave a message with your details and we will endeavour to return calls within 48 hours Monday to Friday.
What is lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a chronic condition where swelling occurs in the body’s tissues following a failure of the lymphatic system. It can affect any part of the body but most commonly develops in the arms, legs, breast area and the face and neck. The role of the lymphatic system is to move fluid around our bodies, remove waste products and support our immune system.
How do I get referred?
We currently provide a service for patients registered with a west Dorset GP area and we offer clinics in Dorchester, Weymouth, and Blandford. We also occasionally offer a home visit if deemed necessary and often work in conjunction with the community team. We accept referrals for patients with both secondary and primary lymphoedema as well as lipoedema. We also offer a risk reducing appointment for patients who are at a higher risk of developing lymphoedema following their cancer treatment. This is currently for patients who have had an axillary clearance for breast cancer and head and neck cancer patients.
If you are a registered health professional in the Weymouth, Portland or north or west Dorset and wish to refer to the Lymphoedema Service, please email using our referral form to lymphnurses@dchft.nhs.uk
First appointment
You will be seen by a member of the team trained in lymphoedema. You will receive an assessment before a care plan will be developed with agreed individual goals. You will also receive education and tools to support you with self-management for this long-term condition this often includes skin care, exercise plan and compression therapy. We also offer the following treatment modalities if deemed necessary complex decongestive therapy, kenisio taping, intermittent compression therapy, photobiomodulation and exercise.
If you are awaiting an appointment or looking for further information, please see the links below for up-to-date information and guidance, self-help videos and clinical guidance on cellulitis and its management in lymphoedema.
Useful links
What Is Lymphoedema – British Lymphology Society
Frequently asked questions – British Lymphology Society
Association of Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
The service operates Monday -Friday 8.30am to 4pm excluding bank holidays
The contact details for the lymphoedema service are 01305 255370 this is an answer phone service and we ask that you leave a message with your details and we will endeavour to return calls within 48 hours Monday to Friday.