This page explains what to expect after you have been referred to the Lymphoedema Service at University College London Hospitals (UCLH) for a face-to-face appointment.
If you have any questions about your appointment or information on this page, please speak to the team caring for you.
What is lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a swelling that can affect any part of the body. It develops when part of the lymphatic system is damaged and cannot work properly.
Lymphoedema cannot be cured, but it can usually be improved and controlled with the right care.
Not all swelling is lymphoedema. Usually, the swelling needs to be present for three months or more before lymphoedema is considered or diagnosed. However, your nurse or doctor may refer you to the Lymphoedema Service earlier than this if needed.
Who are the lymphoedema team?
The lymphoedema team consists of qualified healthcare professionals who specialise in assessing, treating and managing lymphoedema.
Please note that we can only see patients who have suspected or confirmed lymphoedema caused by cancer or cancer treatment.
What happens once I have been offered an appointment?
You will receive an appointment letter confirming the date and time of your appointment.
If your appointment was booked over the phone and your letter does not arrive in time, please still attend your appointment.
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
- A list of your medicines, as we will ask about your medical history.
- Any compression garments you have already been prescribed.
Arriving for your appointment
The lymphoedema clinic is on the lower ground floor of the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre, Huntley Street, London WC1E 6AG.
When you arrive at the Cancer Centre, please check in at one of the check-in kiosks or at the main reception desk on the ground floor.
When it is time for your appointment, your name will appear on the screen with information about where to go. If you would prefer not to have your name displayed, please tell the main reception desk staff. They can give you an alternative name of your choice.
What will happen at the first appointment?
Your first appointment will take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
During the appointment, we will:
- examine you to find out the cause of the swelling
- talk with you about lymphoedema in more detail
- work with you to develop a care plan
Please note that treatment may not start at your first appointment.
What happens after the appointment?
We will write to you and your GP with details of your care plan.
Depending on your needs, we may offer you a follow-up appointment or refer you to a lymphoedema service local to you.
How to get to the Cancer Centre
Visit the Cancer Centre’s page to find out about travel options.
Interpreting and communication support
If you speak little or no English, are deaf or hard of hearing, or need communication support, we can arrange an interpreter. This can be face-to-face or over the phone. To find out more, visit our Interpreting services page.
Contact us
Email: uclh.
Telephone: 020 3447 3925
We are available Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm (excluding bank holidays). We aim to respond as soon as possible, usually on the same or next working day.
Call your GP or NHS 111 if:
- you need urgent medical assessment
- the swelling suddenly gets worse
- you notice signs of infection in the swollen area, such as redness, warmth, pain or discomfort
Services
Page last updated: 25 February 2026
Review due: 01 February 2028
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