Purpose <p>Head and neck lymphoedema (HNL) is a chronic and often debilitating consequence of head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment. Despite the chronicity, it is often under-recognised and under-treated. There is a finite resource of specialists to provide HNL intervention, necessitating self-management as an important pillar of patient management. This study aims to explore healthcare professionals (HCPs) understanding, perceptions and experiences of HNL management to promote self-management and adherence to HNL interventions in patients following completion of HNC treatment.</p> Methods <p>Eight focus groups were conducted with HCPs (<i>n</i> = 39) from different professional disciplines, acute and community settings and countries. Reflexive thematic analysis was adhered to in the development of key themes using an inductive approach.</p> Results <p>Two main themes were established: (1) ‘Raising awareness of HNL as a chronic and complex condition’ and (2) ‘What are the solutions for promoting HNL self-management?’ Data demonstrated that HCPs lack confidence and understanding in providing HNL support. There was a lack of clarity towards roles and responsibilities of HNL management among HCPs, with many having a desire to be better equipped to promote patient self-management and adherence.</p> Conclusion <p>HCPs involved in care delivery of patients with HNC require education and training on HNL, to support patient and family engagement with HNL self-management. To advance adherence and compliance of HNL self-management, there is a need to develop a dedicated HNL self-management intervention, integrating theory and evidence.</p>