Post Surgical Lymphatic Massage

What is it and why is it important?

Lymphatic Drainage Massage should follow cosmetic surgical procedures, like a tummy tuck or mommy makeover. These specialized massages help reduce bruising and inflammation following surgery. They also help shorten the recovery period. It is important to setup your post-op appointments as soon as possible. Scheduling several short appointments the first weeks following surgery and then tapering off as you heal. 

A lymphatic massage should not be confused with a traditional one. A post surgical lymphatic massage focuses on the superficial layers of the skin to improve the function of the lymphatic system.

Wave-like, rhythmic very light strokes are used to open and close lymphatics, enabling areas with excess fluid to drain out. A lymphatic massage also stimulates the nervous system, leading to relaxation. It can also help reduce muscle fatigue, bruising, swelling, and delayed onset muscle soreness.

Benefits of lymphatic massages

Plastic surgery procedures like Brazilian butt lifts, tummy tucks, and liposuction disrupt your lymphatic channels. It can take up to three months for new channels to form following such treatments. Adding lymphatic massages to your recovery program can speed up the development of these new channels.

The massage can also improve the aesthetics derived from the treatment by reducing congestion in the areas worked on. It sends excess fluids into lymphatic nodes, where they can be removed from the body.

Lymphatic massages can also help prevent infection following surgery. Fluid congestion increases the risk of infection because it places pressure on stitched-up incision lines. Plastic surgeons often recommend these massages after any procedures that cause swelling as a side effect.

It is typical to start lymphatic massages within two weeks after surgery. About three to five massages per week are often recommended. The benefits of these massages include:

• • • • • • skin tissues heal much faster, shortening recovery
          • rid anesthesia or medication left in the body
          • reduce pain and discomfort during the recovery process
          • bruising heals faster
          • better performance of the circulatory system
          • reduce inflammation
          • improve quality of surgery

People with health conditions like a current infection, kidney or liver issues, a history of strokes or blood clots, or congestive heart failure are usually not good candidates for a lymphatic massage because it can cause complications.

We provide lymphatic massages

We are here to help aid in your recovery following plastic surgery.