by Dr. Chris Funderburk
Lymphatic Drainage Massage: An Aftercare Essential
Let’s talk about something that’s absolutely crucial for getting the best results after liposuction or body contouring—lymphatic drainage massage. I tell all my patients this: surgery is only half the journey. The way you take care of yourself afterward is what determines how sculpted, smooth, and beautiful your results will be.
After liposuction, your body is working overtime to heal. We’ve just removed fat, and in response, your body naturally sends fluid to the area. This is totally normal, but if that fluid just sits there, it can cause extra swelling, discomfort, and even uneven healing. That’s where lymphatic drainage massage comes in—it’s like giving your body a boost to clear out all that extra fluid and inflammation.
Think of your lymphatic system like the body’s drainage network. When we do surgery, that network gets a little sluggish. Lymphatic massage is a gentle way to get things flowing again, so you’re not stuck with prolonged swelling or that ‘puffy’ look for weeks on end. It helps speed up healing, makes you feel more comfortable, and—this is a big one—prevents those hard little lumps under the skin that can form if fluid isn’t moving properly.
Another thing to remember: smooth, even results aren’t just about the surgery itself. It’s about how your skin and tissues heal afterward. If fluid builds up in certain areas, it can lead to fibrosis (which is basically thickened scar tissue under the skin). Nobody wants that. By doing lymphatic massage, we’re helping your skin reattach smoothly to the underlying muscle, so your results are tight, even, and natural-looking.
I always recommend my patients start their lymphatic massages within the first few days after surgery and continue them regularly for at least a few weeks. Trust me, the difference is night and day. Patients who do this look more sculpted, heal faster, and feel better way sooner than those who skip it.
Bottom line? If you’re investing in your body with surgery, you should
invest in the recovery too. Lymphatic drainage massage isn’t just a ‘nice to have’—it’s an essential step in getting the best possible outcome.
At Neinstein Plastic Surgery, we have developed an extensive referral list of exceptional lymphatic massage therapists, with providers from all over the country—even many in other countries. We will work alongside you to find a trusted, outstanding therapist for your aftercare massages.