​Why Manual Lymphatic Drainage after liposuction, Smart-lipo, Tummy Tuck, Cool Sculpting or other cosmetic surgery procedure? 

Patients may notice a hardness or lumpiness to the areas treated with liposuction especially in the abdominal area and even more so if combined with other body contouring procedures (such as fat injections). This is normal right after the procedure. This post-surgical lymphedema is caused by inflammation and trauma from the cannula moving under the skin.

Channels are formed by the cannula that can fill up with fluid and the tissue also becomes swollen.  Manual Lymphatic Drainage helps to move the fluid by gently pumping it back into the lymph vessels. Reducing the swelling can reduce discomfort. Without MLD, the inflammation can evolve into fibrosis or a seroma can form.

Many doctors prescribe Manual Lymphatic Drainage after liposuction or other plastic surgery procedures to make sure their patients get the best possible results from their procedure.

What should I expect from a MLD session?.

In the first session, please allow an extra 15 minutes evaluation, which includes a review of your medical history and an intake form sent via email (you can print and fill it out before your appointment). The regular session last 60 minutes, with 90-minute options available if needed. It's recommended to drink plenty of water afterward to help eliminate toxins.

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MLD is not painful. We do not use lotions or oils for Vodder Manual Lymphatic Drainage, but we may use Castor oil, Arnica oil and/or Jojoba oil  for post-op MLD treatments.

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Clients will also receive self-treatment strategies, like Self Lymphatic Massage and dry brushing, to support their healing at home. Sessions are tailored to meet each client's specific needs. Our focus is on pain relief, reducing inflammation, prevent fibrosis and restoring range of motion. We may incorporate other massage techniques such as fibrosis massage, scar tissue Release,  CST, Myofascial Release techniques, Cupping and Energy Healing tailored to each individual. As we continue to update this, you may find additional modalities available for your sessions.

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Healing varies by person, but most clients experience relief within 1-5 sessions, depending on the treatment type. For optimal results, we recommend one or two MLD treatments before a procedure, and some patients may benefit from 1-5 post-op treatments, especially after liposuction in specific areas for example, legs, arms or flanks.

Many people undergoing abdominal liposuction may need up to 12 sessions, and some may require more, particularly those who have had "Smart-lipo" or "mommy make over". Clients opting for multiple procedures, like lipo combined with a tummy tuck or Brazilian Butt Lift, might also need additional sessions.

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What is the difference between Vodder and Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage massage?

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​Vodder lymphatic drainage massage technique is gentle, light, rhythmic strokes that follow the body's lymphatic pathways.  It is intended to reduce swelling, improve the immune system, relieve pain and discomfort  and it is use for recovering from surgery, experiencing edema, cancer treatment.

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Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage techniques are deep, rhythmic strokes that target specific areas of the body. 

Intended to reduce cellulite, improve skin tone, target specific body concerns and it is commonly use to improving physical appearance, targeting cellulite, body shape improvement. 

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When can I star receiving Manual Lymphatic Drainage after surgery?

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You can start Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) 48 -72 hours after your procedure, with physician's release confirming no infection and regulated pain medications. For oncology patients, it's best to wait at least 2 days post-chemotherapy to allow the treatment to work without stimulating the lymphatic system. Regarding compression garments, you need your physician's approval to remove it during the session. If advised to keep it on, MLD can still be effective, as it promotes lymphatic movement and helps eliminate excess fluid naturally through your urinary system.  

 

Are you a Lymphedema Therapist?

 

​I am not a Lymphedema Therapist; but I have experience as a Massage Therapist, specializing in Post-Plastic surgery clients and supporting cancer patients with mild to moderate secondary lymphedema (stages 0, 1, and 2) through Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD).

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MLD  is a key component of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) and is used in the first phase. CDT also includes compression, exercise, and skin care. CDT is the gold standard for lymphedema treatment, emphasizing self-care and additional support services like psychological counseling and nutritional guidance.

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