Celebrating stories of courage, resilience and recovery on World Plastic Surgery Day, Manipal Hospital EM Bypass felicitated patients who had successfully overcome complex medical conditions through advanced Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery under the care of Dr. Cinjini Das, HOD & Senior Consultant – Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, and Dr. Subham Kejriwal, Associate Consultant – Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Manipal Hospital EM Bypass in the presence of Dr. Sourav Datta, Director – Manipal Oncology Services and Senior Consultant – Head and Neck – Oncology Surgery, Manipal Hospital EM Bypass and Dr. Arunava Roy, HOD – Gynaecologic Oncology – Manipal Hospital EM Bypass. The programme highlighted that Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery extends far beyond cosmetic procedures, encompassing complex reconstructions that restore function, mobility and quality of life.
As part of this year’s observance, Manipal Hospital EM Bypass highlighted lymphedema (a condition in which lymphatic fluid accumulates in the body’s tissues, causing swelling), a chronic yet often underdiagnosed condition that commonly develops after cancer treatment and can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. Through the inspiring journeys of two women, one in whom lymphedema was successfully prevented and another who overcame advanced lymphedema with reconstructive microsurgery, the hospital reinforced that timely diagnosis, advanced treatment and multidisciplinary care can help patients regain their independence and confidence.
During the programme, Chabbi Rani Ghosh, a 67-year-old homemaker, shared her journey of courage and recovery after being diagnosed with gynaecological cancer. She initially underwent surgery on 4th February 2026. During a subsequent follow-up, doctors identified a swollen lymph node in her right groin that required further surgical intervention. As the procedure carried a significant risk of developing lymphedema in her right leg, she and her family were counselled about a preventive treatment approach. On 20th March 2026, she underwent robot-assisted oncological surgery, during which the damaged lymphatic vessels were meticulously connected to nearby veins through the same surgical incision using advanced microsurgical techniques to reduce the risk of lymphedema. Following the procedure, she successfully completed her radiation therapy and has since remained free from symptoms of lymphedema. She has resumed her daily activities independently and continues to lead a healthy, active life.
Reflecting on her recovery, Chabbi Rani Ghosh said, “When I was told I needed another surgery, I was worried that I might lose my ability to walk normally. Thanks to the advanced treatment and constant support from the doctors, I recovered well and never developed the swelling I feared. Today, I can do all my household work, walk comfortably, and enjoy my daily life. I am truly grateful to the entire team at Manipal Hospital EM Bypass for giving me back my confidence and independence.”
Another patient, Sumita Bhattacharya a 58-year-old homemaker, was also felicitated for her inspiring recovery from advanced lymphedema following cancer treatment. After undergoing surgery and chemotherapy for gynaecological cancer in 2020, she developed severe swelling in her right leg that gradually progressed to Grade III lymphedema, making even simple daily activities difficult. Following an advanced supermicrosurgery at Manipal Hospital EM Bypass in June 2026, her swelling reduced significantly within just three weeks, allowing her to regain her mobility and independence.
Sharing her experience, Sumita Bhattacharya said, “For years, I lived with constant swelling and discomfort, and every day felt like a struggle. I had almost lost hope of leading a normal life again. After my surgery, the change has been incredible. I can walk comfortably, carry out my daily activities, and live without the constant pain and heaviness. I am deeply grateful to the doctors and the entire team at Manipal Hospital EM Bypass for giving me a new lease on life.”
In her address, Dr. Cinjini Das, HOD & Senior Consultant – Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Manipal Hospital EM Bypass, said, “World Plastic Surgery Day is an opportunity to create greater awareness about the reconstructive side of Plastic Surgery, which is focused on restoring function, improving quality of life and performing complex reconstructions, extending far beyond restoring appearance. Lymphedema is a chronic yet often underdiagnosed and less understood condition that can develop following cancer surgery, radiotherapy, trauma, infections or congenital abnormalities of the lymphatic system. Advances in reconstructive microsurgery, including procedures such as Lymphaticovenous Anastomosis (LVA) and Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT), have transformed the management of lymphedema by improving lymphatic drainage, reducing limb swelling and recurrent infections, and helping patients regain mobility and confidence. Early diagnosis, timely referral and a multidisciplinary approach are essential to achieving the best outcomes, enabling many patients to lead healthier, more active and independent lives.”
Through the programme, Manipal Hospital EM Bypass emphasised that early diagnosis, timely referral and a multidisciplinary approach are key to effective lymphedema management. Marking World Plastic Surgery Day, the hospital reaffirmed its commitment to advancing reconstructive care, raising awareness of lymphedema, expanding access to specialised treatment, and driving continued research and innovation in lymphatic surgery.
Manipal Hospital EM Bypass Marks World Plastic Surgery Day with Focus on Lymphedema Prevention and Treatment
