By Anna Diamantakos Owner/Operator of Liquid Sculpt
Everything You Need To Know About Lymphatic Drainage After Plastic Surgery
Lymphatic drainage is a key part of post-operative care following plastic surgery. It refers to a specialized massage technique that encourages the movement of lymph fluid, which can reduce swelling (edema), speed up the healing process, and promote the removal of toxins from the body. After plastic surgery, the lymphatic system may become overwhelmed by the increased fluid and cellular waste caused by tissue trauma, leading to swelling and discomfort.
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, the therapist uses comfortable , rhythmic, and precise movements to stimulate the lymphatic system by focusing on areas that house your main lymph nodes. The massage is designed to encourage the movement of lymph fluid toward lymph nodes, where it can be filtered and then eliminated from the body. 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. The massage typically lasts 60 minutes, and is a non-invasive, relaxing treatment, often described as soothing, and should be incorporated into the post-surgical recovery process under your surgeons and therapists guidance.
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 4 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?
You can generally start lymphatic drainage massage 24 hours after surgery, but the exact timing depends on the type of procedure you’ve undergone and your surgeon’s specific recommendations. In some cases, particularly after tummy tucks, we advise starting at around day 3-5 post-op to reduce swelling and fluid buildup.
Does it hurt?
The key is that lymphatic drainage should never cause sharp or intense pain. If you experience pain during the treatment, it’s important to communicate this with the therapist so they can adjust the pressure or avoid sensitive areas. In most cases, the massage is relaxing and can even help ease discomfort by reducing swelling and fluid buildup, which often contributes to post-surgical pain. Since post-surgery areas may be tender or swollen, some discomfort can occur, especially if the surgical area is sensitive.
In the end, we are confident the benefits of your drainage will outweigh any discomfort you may feel. You should feel completely rejuvenated, more pliable, and flexible, and an overall feeling of well being post treatment.
How many sessions do I need to best heal?
Most patients will have two lymphatic drainage sessions per week for 4-8 weeks post surgery. Each individuals journey is unique, and we advise to listen to your body and its needs during this time.
Can I have lymphatic drainage massage with a drain in?
Yes, lymphatic drainage massage can offer several benefits even when surgical drains are in place after surgery. While surgical drains help remove excess fluids from the surgical area, lymphatic drainage complements this process by encouraging the natural flow of lymphatic fluid and improving overall healing. It’s important to have a lymphatic drainage massage performed by a trained therapist who is familiar with post-surgical care. They will know how to work around the drains and avoid interfering with the healing process.
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?
No, fluid does not directly come out of your body during a lymphatic drainage massage in the way it would from a surgical drain or wound. Instead, lymphatic drainage stimulates the natural movement of lymph fluid through your lymphatic system, helping the body to process and eliminate excess fluid more efficiently.
The lymphatic system moves fluid through lymph nodes, where it is filtered, and then the fluid is eventually returned to the bloodstream. From there, the body processes the excess fluid and waste through normal bodily functions, like urination. While you may notice reduced swelling and an overall lighter feeling after a session, the fluid is eliminated naturally over time rather than coming out of the body during the massage itself.
Can I have a lymphatic massage long after I heal
Yes, many plastic surgery patients switch from healing/recovery to tightening/toning/slimming massages for life as these sessions help tighten skin and keep the surgical areas 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/hotel appointment with Liquid Sculpt.