The benefits of lymphatic drainage post surgery

At Remedy Room West, we put your healing needs first. Our priority is to provide a safe, welcoming space and provide expert advice, support, and treatment. One of our most popular post-surgery treatments in Glasgow is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). 

Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage technique that helps move lymph fluid away from swollen areas. This occurs when illness or medical treatment blocks the lymphatic system. 

What is a lymphatic drainage massage?

Manual lymphatic drainage is a specialised massage technique performed by trained and certified massage therapists. Unlike traditional massage, lymphatic massage involves gentle, rhythmic strokes that stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid. This targeted approach helps clear waste, reduce swelling, and encourage the natural healing processes of your body. 

Lymphatic drainage massage is a core part of Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT), a standard treatment for managing lymphedema. However, its benefits extend far beyond chronic conditions and are particularly powerful for patients recovering from surgery. 

When should you start lymphatic drainage after surgery?

When you should start your Lymphatic Drainage treatment after surgery varies from person to person. We recommend that you discuss your drainage massage with your medical professional before booking a treatment plan. 

Commonly, treatment starts within the first five days after surgery once your initial wounds have started to heal. 

How many treatments should I have?

To ensure you get the best results, we recommend around 4-8 treatments, alongside a preparation treatment, before surgery. The number of treatments required is dependent on a number of factors. 

• The individual 

• The amount of swelling 

• Health conditions 

• The type of surgery you’ve undergone 

• Diet and hydration 

• Daily movement 

Does lymphatic drainage hurt?

No, your lymphatic drainage should not hurt. 

As your lymph nodes sit just under the skin, the massage pressure applied is very light. Most find the treatment to be relaxing and soothing and find it can actually reduce pain and sensitivity. 

Why choose lymphatic drainage after cosmetic surgery?

Whatever cosmetic surgery you’ve had, whether it’s liposuction, a tummy tuck, breast augmentation, or other surgeries which cause swelling and discomfort, a lymphatic massage can help you feel better faster. 

There are many benefits of a lymphatic massage. 

• Speeds up the healing process:
  

  A lymphatic drainage massage encourages the flow of lymphatic fluid which helps to remove bacteria and debris, reduce inflammation and fluid retention, and speed up tissue repair. 

• Increases body confidence:
  

  Helping your body to heal more efficiently will make you feel more comfortable and confident during your recovery journey. 

• Reduces pain and swelling:
  

  Encouraging lymphatic fluid to move through the body reduces swelling and pain. 

• Calms the nervous system:

  
  Reducing stress, restlessness and tension allows your nervous system to relax. 

• Improved skin texture:

  A lymphatic drainage massage may decrease scarring, lumps and bumps and improve skin tone. 

What to expect during your lymphatic drainage massage 

Your lymphatic drainage massage at the Remedy Room West will last between 60-90 minutes, depending on the impacted areas. Unlike a traditional massage, lymphatic drainage doesn’t involve any oils and requires very light pressure and then a deeper pressure for the muscular system.  

This will provide you with a calming and painless experience, during which many clients find themselves going into a state of deep relaxation (some even fall asleep!). The treatment will be tailored to you and focus on the areas affected by your surgery and any additional areas of swelling, such as the legs or arms.  

Lymphatic drainage is a gentle and safe way to enhance your healing process, helping to prevent infection and reduce scarring. It also helps to calm the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) which may be working overtime during the recovery process. This can lead to symptoms like increased heart rate, restlessness, and difficulty relaxing as well as amplifying the nervous systems, creating stress and tension.  

You can reap the benefits from as early as your first treatment and will find the benefits increase as your treatment goes on.  

At Remedy Room West, we’re passionate about providing a safe, welcoming, and professional environment to empower our clients in their recovery journey. If you’re preparing for surgery or are in the early stages of recovery, consider the profound benefits of manual lymphatic drainage. 

Based in Glasgow, our experienced therapist Philippa is here to guide you through a recovery plan tailored to your needs.  

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Allow Remedy Room West to be part of your recovery story.