Lymphatic Massage After A Liposuction: What You Should Know

Getting liposuction can be an exciting journey in feeling more comfortable in your own skin! However, it’s really important to know about the post-operative care that can help ensure you recover smoothly and effectively.
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After the liposuction procedure you will have discomfort from post-surgical swelling.  It can be overwhelming but we can help.
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Wearing your compression will help minimize the extent of swelling that you experience. Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) also known as lymphatic massage can aid your body in absorption of this excess swelling and prevent fluid build-up.  As your body heals and your swelling decreases your comfort will improve and your results will slowly start to appear, expect to start seeing your new shape in 3-6 months. Then watch your body transform to your final outcome in about 1 year.  
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We can help you through these first few months with our expert training and experience.  And we save you time and money by creating a custom experience each session to help your body heal and to minimize your discomfort.
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Benefits of Lymphatic Massage After Liposuction

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that targets the removal of fat from the body.  It sculpts and enhances your body shape.  When the fat is removed some of your superficial lymphatic vessels are damaged. This is temporary and your body will recover.
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These superficial lymphatic vessels are responsible for the absorption of excess fluid. Your surgery and the healing process CREATES more lymphatic fluid, a fluid containing white blood cells and waste products.  So you have more workload and less resources. This is where lymphatic massage can help to reduce extra fluid buildup and improve lymphatic flow.  
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We know how to move excess swelling from damaged lymphatics to an area of complete lymphatic health.
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We do this with a gentle and careful technique called manual lymphatic drainage.
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Positive benefits from massage after lipo include:

• Reduced swelling and fluid retention: The lymphatic system becomes disrupted by liposuction, causing swelling and fluid buildup. Gentle lymphatic massages can help drain excess fluid and reduce post-operative swelling by moving fluid away from the treated areas.
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• Improved healing: Lymphatic massage can potentially accelerate the recovery time and lower the risk of infection by improving tissue health.
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• Reduced Risk of Complications: When done correctly, lymphatic massage will minimize uneven healing and thus prevent excess scar tissue formation called fibrosis. We assist in the healing process. We also help to monitor your compression which can help reduce the risk of seroma after surgery.

Before scheduling a lymphatic massage following liposuction, it is crucial to consult with your plastic surgeon. They will determine if it is suitable for your recovery and can suggest a skilled lymphatic massage therapist experienced in post-operative treatments.
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Lymphatic massage sessions is not magic:

Lymphatic massage can be a valuable addition to your post - surgery recovery, but it's important to have realistic expectations. While it can help reduce excessive swelling, minimize potential complications, and improve your healing process, it's not a guaranteed fix.
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How will I know if the lymphatic massages are working?

It may take a while for lymphatic drainage massages to begin showing results, however, there are specific indicators that suggest they are effectively helping in your healing progress:
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• Reduced swelling: Liposuction creates large amounts of swelling which can feel hard and painful.  You should notice a softening of your tissues, a decrease in swelling and increased urination after your session.
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• Increased mobility: As the inflammation goes down, you might feel less discomfort and heaviness in those areas. This may lead to enhanced flexibility and movement.
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• Better fitting clothes: Decreased inflammation can result in your clothing fitting more loosely and feeling more comfortable.
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Having patience is important. If you don't see any progress after a couple of sessions, make sure to bring it up with either the lymphatic therapist or your doctor. They will be able to assess whether lymphatic drainage massage is suitable for you and can suggest alternative treatments if necessary.
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Here are some additional tips:
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• Maintain communication: Communicate effectively with your lymphatic massage therapist regarding your objectives and any feedback you may have following the session.
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• Track your progress: During the recovery phase, check for post-op swelling and any buildup of fluid by measuring swollen areas and noting changes in your movements.
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• Hydrate: Drinking enough water helps your lymphatic system function well.

Consulting with a medical professional is important, especially if you have preexisting health conditions.
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Lymphatic Massage Techniques for Post-Liposuction

Using lymphatic drainage massage techniques to apply constant pressure is important to improve lymph flow and aid in the recovery process.
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Listed below are some techniques that a massage therapist may use during a lymphatic drainage session after liposuction surgery:
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• Light Touch: Lymphatic drainage is a bit different from your regular massage because it takes a softer, more soothing approach. Lymphatic Therapists use light pressure and gentle movements to prevent any additional swelling, making sure you feel relaxed and comfortable.
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• Specific Areas: Their attention will be directed towards regions surrounding lymph nodes such as the armpits and groin, regardless of their distance from the liposuction area, due to their importance in drainage.
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• Directional Strokes: During massages, pressure is applied in the direction that the flow of lymph fluid naturally moves, back into the lymph vessels.
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• Different Techniques: Various techniques can be implemented, such as Vodder (circular hand motions), Leduc (gentle pressure to collect fluid), Casley-Smith (sweeping motions), and Foldi (combining relaxation and circular movements).
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• Additional Therapies: Therapists may use additional methods such as compression, gliding, or stretching to improve the absorption of excess swelling.

It's important to remember:

Post-operative massages, typically scheduled for one-hour sessions within 5 days of surgery, can be beneficial in reducing excess fluid and promoting proper healing. For the best recovery, research suggests that getting a lymphatic massage three times a week for the first one to two weeks can really help. As you start to heal, you can then switch to a weekly session.

Lymphatic massage can be a wonderful way to support your recovery journey after an invasive procedure. It supports immune function and can lower the chances of any potential complications. It’s all about giving your body a little extra care when you need it most!

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