If you have had plastic surgery, your doctor probably recommended post op lymphatic massage. Also called manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), lymphatic massage is a light-pressure technique that assists the flow of fluid away from a swollen area by using your body’s own systems. Unlike a Swedish or therapeutic massage, the lymphatic therapist uses a very gentle touch that stretches the skin and stimulates the lymph nodes.
Post-op MLD is not incisional drainage and should never hurt. This work draws swelling fluid towards the kidneys so that you basically pee it out. It does not involve opening surgical sites or pushing fluid to drains or openings. It can support recovery from any type of cosmetic procedure– liposuction, BBL, tummy tuck, gynecomastia reduction, gender confirmation surgery, etc…
Week one post op usually involves multiple sessions depending on which procedure you had. As a general rule of thumb,low volume lipo may require fewer sessions than other surgeries. The goal of the first couple of sessions is to move fluid which will reduce pain and swelling, lessen bruising, and promote healing. The therapist will use MLD techniques only.
Similarly, week two post-op focuses on draining lymphatic fluid back into the system and relieving pain and swelling. Depending on your speed of healing, gentle massage strokes may be introduced in this or the following week.
Week three post-op and beyond your therapist may start using additional techniques. Your therapist may incorporate warm stones, light massage techniques, and gentle cupping. Depending on your healing, these sessions may also focus on reducing “tight” or “hard spots” that have developed during the post-op healing process. Some procedures, like a tummy tuck, require a longer healing time before moving to this stage.
