By Anna Diamantakos Owner/Operator of Liquid Sculpt
Everything You Need To Know About Lymphatic Drainage After Plastic Surgery
Lymphatic drainage is a special massage that helps plastic surgery patients heal faster and better after their procedures.
Surgery can cause swelling post-op, which is why plastic surgeons who are invested in the care and recovery of their patients recommend several possible solutions for alleviating discomfort and swelling during recovery. One of the first, and preferred solutions to stimulate a speedy and healthy recovery is lymphatic drainage.
About Drainage Massage
During a lymphatic drainage massage, your practitioner will focus on areas that house your main lymph nodes. Comfortable pressure and long strokes are used to move the lymph fluid in such a way that the organs will be able to effectively eliminate the toxins. Once a patient reaches a certain point in their recovery, tools can also be introduced to enhance results.
Once it is safe to introduce tools, a variation of organic cedar wood instruments are used. These instruments intensify the breakdown of fatty tissue and cellulite so it may be naturally eliminated along with other toxins through the lymphatic system. Another major benefit is chiseling the waist area, defining arms and legs, and firming the thighs and buttocks.
More About Lymphatic Drainage
Manual lymphatic drainage assists in alleviating edema, detoxifying tissue, and inducing a state of relaxation. Typically, 24 hours after surgery, manual lymphatic drainage can begin. With clearance from your physician this may vary post diastis recti, and or a tummy tuck, usually beginning 5-7 days post-procedure. Lymphatic drainage involves your therapist massaging the areas that house your main lymph nodes, to boost the movement of lymph fluids around the body. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system, which protects the body from any changes that could lead to illness and is how your body can stay healthy. Lymphatic drainage aims to help the body maintain proper fluid balance, immunity, and blood circulation. We harp on the importance of decreasing swelling and inflammation which in turn helps with the healing of bruises and sutures, increasing oxygen flow, reducing discomfort, preventing the formation of scar tissue, fibrosis, and keloid scarring, and aiding in the detoxification of toxins from medications used in the surgical process. A unique, safe and effective therapy that Liquid Sculpt incorporates in sessions is a proprietary and specially formulated frozen gel that is made up of healing herbs and antibacterial and anti fungal properties. Used in conjunction with lymphatic drainage for the first few weeks after surgery, the benefits are recommended for a speedy and shorter recovery and healing time. Treatment is not intended to feel painful, and your technician will periodically check in with you during treatment to ensure that you are comfortable. Upon completion of your lymphatic drainage massage, you should feel incredibly rejuvenated, with significant relief, and an overall sense of well being, which will last even days after your session.
It is imperative that patients adhere to an appropriate post operative lymphatic drainage regime for optimal results and proper healing. Some studies suggest that after care accounts for about 30% of what your results will look like. Your technician should not only be able to treat you, but also guide and support you through your journey. Together, you will formulate a treatment plan tailored specifically for you, your needs, healing process, and lifestyle. My motto with any cosmetic procedure always has been to “protect your investment.”
Why Lymphatic Drainage is Important
As the body’s sole source of natural cleansing, the lymphatic system gets rid of toxic fluids that can cause us to experience swelling and discomfort. Lymphatic drainage is an essential treatment pre surgery and even more crucial post surgery. A stagnant lymphatic system leads to a buildup of waste and toxins in the body. Those facing surgery greatly benefit from one to three sessions of manual lymphatic drainage prior to any procedure. Although not required, it is certainly recommended as this process drains toxins and stimulates the immune system before it is inhibited. These techniques make it easier for the surgeon to make an incision through clean, well-drained tissue especially in any kind of aesthetic surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lymphatic Drainage
When can I start?
Patients who had liposuction alone can start the day after surgery. For patients with tucks we suggest a few days after surgery.
Does it hurt?
Drainage is typically not painful, however, since the body is inflamed post-surgery you may feel some discomfort. In the end, we are confident the benefits of your drainage will outweigh any discomfort you may feel.
How many sessions do I need to best heal?
Most patients will have two lymphatic drainage sessions per week for 4 weeks.
Can I have lymphatic drainage massage with a drain in?
Yes
Will my massage therapist speak with my surgeon?
Yes, we believe coordinated care provides for the best possible results for patients.
Does fluid actually come out of my body?
Yes, your body makes fluid in response to surgery and the buildup of that fluid causes pain, swelling, and scarring. The goal of drainage massage is to get that excess fluid out of your body for better healing.
Can I have a lymphatic massage long after I heal?
Yes, many plastic surgery patients switch from healing to tightening/toning massages for life as these sessions help tighten skin and keep the surgical areas tight and sculpted.
Can I have a lymphatic drainage massage at my hotel/home or do I have to travel to a therapist?
Both are options. Your care team at Neinstein Plastic Surgery can help coordinate an at-home appointment with Liquid Sculpt.
For more information regarding Liquid Sculpt’s services, pricing, and locations, you can call (718) 926-2201 or email liquidsculptpostop@gmail.com.