What is Post-Op Lymphatic Massage?
Post-Op Massage is a gentle, specialized massage designed to support comfort and recovery following surgery. MLD (Manual Lymphatic Drainage) techniques are incorporated in the early stages of healing, to encourage the movement of excess fluid through the lymphatic system. It is gentle, light and should NOT be painful. It can help ease feelings of swelling, tightness and discomfort while providing a calming, relaxing experience during your recovery.
It is recommended to start these massages 3-7 days post surgery (with surgeon clearance), as that is when postoperative swelling and fluid accumulation is most common. Starting early allows for gentle, appropriate techniques to support lymphatic flow and help you stay as comfortable as possible while your body begins to heal. Although an early start is recommended, clients may begin the massages later in their recovery as well. Treatment is always adapted to your procedure, healing process, and your surgeon's instructions.
2-3 massages per week in the first two weeks may be recommended during the initial stage of recovery. Consistent treatments can provide ongoing support for lymphatic flow and help maintain comfort as your body adjusts and healing progresses. Your treatment frequency will always be adjusted based on your procedure and healing progress.
As healing continues and your incisions have fully closed, treatment can gradually transition from primarily lymphatic-focused work to scar and tissue care. Gentle techniques may be incorporated to support tissue mobility, improve the feel and flexibility of healed scar tissue, and address areas of tightness or restriction.
How should I prepare?
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Stay hydrated before and after your appointment
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Eat a light meal so you aren't receiving treatment on an empty stomach
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Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to change in and out of
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Bring any post-op garments, boards or for BBL clients, pillows that you have been instructed to use by your surgical team.
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Please notify me before your appointment if you're experiencing increasing redness/warmth, fever or other new symptoms**
Will I be comfortable?
Yes! It is a relaxing, gentle massage and you will be positioned using pillows according to your procedure and comfortability.
Can I go to my appointment with my drains in?
Yes! Your massage will not be performed directly over open wounds, incisions, or areas that are not sufficiently healed.
Where does the fluid go?
Your lymphatic system continuously collects fluid from your tissues and transports it through lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes. The fluid is eventually returned to your bloodstream, where your body processes and eliminates the excess fluid through normal functions such as urination. Fluid does NOT get squeezed out through incisions.
Is this a detox?
Lymphatic massage doesn't detox your body or remove toxins. Your liver and kidneys are responsible for processing and eliminating waste products. It is primarily lymphatic fluid that is being encouraged to move through your lymphatic system so your body can process and clear it normally.
Where can I book?
Here!