How a Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage Therapist Supports Your Post-Op Recovery

Recovering from surgery, whether it’s cosmetic, reconstructive, or orthopedic, is a journey. For anyone who’s gone through post-op recovery, you know that it goes beyond simply resting at home with ice packs and popsicles. Your body is hard at work repairing tissues, managing swelling, dealing with pain, and adapting to changes; every cell in your body is concentrating/rationing energy towards healing. There are ways to support and aid your body’s healing efforts, and this is where an MLD massage therapist can become one of your most valuable recovery partners!

Recovering from surgery, whether it’s cosmetic, reconstructive, or orthopedic, is a journey. For anyone who’s gone through post-op recovery, you know that it goes beyond simply resting at home with ice packs and popsicles. Your body is hard at work repairing tissues, managing swelling, dealing with pain, and adapting to changes; every cell in your body is concentrating/rationing energy towards healing. There are ways to support and aid your body’s healing efforts, and this is where an MLD massage therapist can become one of your most valuable recovery partners!

Why MLD Is Different!

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialized technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system and promote the movement of lymph fluid. After surgery, this process becomes especially crucial for a smoother recovery. 

Surgical procedures disrupt lymphatic flow, leading to swelling, discomfort, and even the formation of scar tissue if not addressed. Our MLD massage therapists use light, precise, and rhythmic strokes to help push and move the lymphatic fluid, helping your body reduce inflammation, prevent fluid buildup, and accelerate the healing process, leaving you more comfortable, healthier, and with less pain and discomfort.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage therapy - Benefits You Can Feel and See

Clients recovering from all types of surgeries often notice a difference within just a few sessions. Post-op MLD can:

  • Decrease swelling and inflammation, making the healing process progress faster, = you being more comfortable
  • Prevent the development of fibrosis and excessive scar tissue
  • Improve mobility in the treated areas
  • Shorten overall recovery time so that you can get back to your daily life sooner!

Enhance the visible results of your surgery by reducing residual puffiness, swelling, and fluid buildup. Non-negotiable for after cosmetic surgery. 

mld massage therapist

Tailored to Different Recovery Needs

A manual lymphatic drainage massage therapist adapts the session to your specific surgery and healing stage. How does that work? Well, for example, whether you’ve had a tummy tuck, liposuction, joint replacement, breast augmentation, or a facial procedure, the techniques are adjusted to work safely around drains, compression garments, and incision sites. 

Assisting the Healing Process, From the Inside Out

While the physical benefits are great, manual lymphatic drainage also promotes a deep sense of relaxation. Many clients find that it calms their nervous system, improves sleep, and eases the emotional stress that often comes with recovery. Manual lymphatic drainage is a valuable addition to your post-op care plan, and as a holistic health spa, your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being are our top priority. 

Everyone’s recovery will be different, but general guidelines for most surgeries recommend manual lymphatic drainage within 36–48 hours post-op, with multiple sessions per week during the early recovery phase. Our manual lymphatic drainage massage therapists will guide you on the ideal frequency based on your body’s needs and the complexity of your procedure.

Ready to support your post-op recovery?


Book a session with a manual lymphatic drainage massage therapist at Elevation Massage & Spa and experience the difference targeted, compassionate care can make!

Consent of the client is required:

I understand that results will vary among individuals. I understand that although I may see a change after my first treatment, I will likely require a series of sessions to obtain my desired outcome.

Maria Elevation
Maria Elevation
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