Lymphoedema is a chronic swelling due to a failure of the lymphatic system. It is not curable and clinical sequelae when lymphoedema is not actively managed can expose the patient to deteriorating physical function and the requirement for escalated clinical intervention. Lymphoedema can be alleviated by appropriate active management, but without this it will progress and become increasingly difficult to manage. Risk reduction and management strategies should cover the patient’s entire lifespan. The incidence and prevalence of lymphoedema is increasing as more patients survive cancer.