Post-Surgical Lymphatic Drainage

Gentle, targeted therapy to reduce swelling, enhance healing, and restore balance after surgery.

Undergoing plastic surgery is a significant decision and proper post-operative care is crucial for optimal results. MLD plays a vital role in the recovery.

Understanding What Happens After Surgery

Surgery - whether cosmetic or medical - causes intentional trauma to the body. The lymphatic system immediately reacts to this trauma by sending fluid and immune cells to the area to protect and repair tissues. This is what creates swelling (edema) and tightness after surgery.

While this is part of healing, the excess fluids can build up faster than your lymphatic vessels can clear, leading to prolonged swelling, pressure, hardness, and in some cases, fibrosis (scar tissue formations).

Manual Lymphatic Drainage gently stimulate the lymph vessels, encouraging fluid to move back into the lymphatic pathways and filter through lymph nodes, helping your body naturally clear waste and inflammation more efficiently.

Why Post-Surgical Lymphatic Drainage Helps

Encourages lymphatic flow, reducing fluid retention and discomfort.

Increased micro-circulation to help your body reabsorb trapped blood and reduce tightness.

Softens early fibrotic tissue and prevents long-term adhesions.

Decreases swelling on nerves, promoting comfort and mobility.

Speeds recovery by supporting detox and immune function

Swelling & Inflammation

Bruising & Stiffness

Fibrosis (lumpy tissue)

Pain & Pressure

Healing Time

Most clients report feeling lighter, less tender, and more mobile after each session - with visible reduction in swelling over time.

Treatment Phases or Schedule

Recommended Frequency

  • Weeks 1-4: (2-3) sessions per week

  • Weeks 5-8: (1-2) sessions per week

  • Week 9+: 1 session per week for continued healing and maintenance.

Frequency depends on the type of surgery, areas treated, and your individual healing process.

Your therapist will evaluate your stage of recovery and adjust frequency as you body heals.

Scheduling a Pre-Operative Consultation is Recommended

It is highly recommended to schedule a pre-operative consultation prior to your surgery date. This allows us to:

  • Create a personalized post-op treatment plan based on your procedure and recovery goals.

  • Perform a full-body lymphatic detox to help prepare your system and promote optimal surgical outcomes.

  • Review timing, frequency, and any surgeon specific instruction for post-op care.

Call 757-504-2113 for consultation.

  • Most clients begin once drains are removed and your surgeon clears you, typically around 1-2 weeks post-op.

  • This varies based on the type of surgery, number of areas treated, and how your body heals. Most clients complete 8-12 sessions over the first 6-8 weeks.

  • Absolutely not. We will never reopen or manipulate incision sites. MLD encourages internal lymph flow, helping your body move excess fluids and eliminated naturally.

  • MLD is a medically based technique using gentle, directional strokes that target the lymphatic system, not muscle tissue. It does not use deep pressure or kneading.

For a phone consultation please call 757-504-2113.