Question 1

Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage the same as lymphatic massage?

Accepted Answer

Manual Lymphatic Drainage, or MLD, is a specific therapeutic technique that facilitates stimulation of the lymphatic system to move lymph through precise pathways.  This term is commonly used in medical and rehabilitative settings and requires a trained/properly certified therapist to perform it.

"Lymphatic massage" is a broader term that may be used for spa or wellness massages but is not necessarily performed by a certified MLD therapist.  Other common generic terms that may be used include:  lymphatic drainage massage, manual lymph massage, lymph drainage, etc.  However, these may not technically qualify as manual lymphatic drainage.

Question 2

Does the manual lymphatic drainage hurt?

Accepted Answer

No!  Authentic MLD involves the use of the therapist's hands to provide very gentle, rhythmic strokes along the superficial surface of the skin.  Occasionally, slightly firmer strokes will be used on hardened tissue areas, or fibrosis.  Even with firmer techniques, the session should never be painful.
 
Improper methods and techniques, particularly when pressure is applied too deeply, can impede lymphatic flow, cause increased inflammation, and slow the healing process.

Question 3

What can I expect during my session?

Accepted Answer

Your therapist will conduct a review of your medical history and you may share any specific requests and/or focus areas.
The therapist will step away to wash their hands thoroughly.  During this time, you may disrobe to your comfort level and position yourself face-up under the sheet.
The therapist will return and initiate the treatment, which usually begins with gentle neck work and deep breathing exercises to stimulate the deep lymphatic system.
Throughout the treatment, you are encouraged to relax, focus on your breathing, and also let the therapist know if you need any adjustments.
Once the treatment is finished, the therapist will step outside once again to wash their hands.  During this time, you may get dressed.
After your session, make sure to stay hydrated and be aware that if this is your first MLD session, you could experience some detox effects.

Question 4

What makes you different from other places that offer lymphatic massage?

Accepted Answer

Manual lymphatic drainage originated as part of medical treatments for conditions such as lymphedema.  Our therapists are medical rehabilitation professionals with advanced degrees and the highest credentialing available for lymphatic therapists (LANA-certified lymphedema therapists). They not only have expertise in MLD techniques, they also have extensive knowledge on the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system and complex medical conditions which may impact treatment planning.

Question 5

Why is it called "drainage?"  Do any fluids actually drain out?"

Accepted Answer

MLD is non-invasive and only works on surfaces of the skin that are intact (not open), thus there is no external drainage of fluids.  The lymphatic fluid is "drained" internally through the lymphatic system then either recirculated through your body and/or excreted.  Therefore, it is not uncommon to experience increased urination after a lymphatic massage.
 
Some physicians may perform techniques to drain fluids externally through incisions following surgery - this is not MLD.  Outside of sterile environments with a licensed medical professional, this is never recommended.

Question 6

Do you provide any other types of massages?

Accepted Answer

We take pride in the fact that we solely focus on manual lymphatic drainage and treatments focused on enhancing the lymphatic system, which allows for the utmost expertise in our techniques.  Because our therapists are medical rehabilitation professionals and not massage therapists, no other types of massages are offered.

Question 7

How many sessions will I need after surgery?

Accepted Answer

This will vary depending on the amount of swelling and/or fibrosis you experience.  In general, we recommend treatments 2-3 times per week for the first 1-2 weeks, then weekly visits thereafter as needed.

Question 8

How soon after surgery can I start receiving MLD?

Accepted Answer

You can generally start treatments very soon after surgery, however you should obtain clearance from your surgeon.  Most surgeons will clear MLD within 1-3 days of liposuction and/or BBL.  Following abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), mommy makeover, and facial procedures, MLD is typically initiated after 3-5 days. 
 
Many clients also benefit from treatments before surgery to stimulate the lymphatic system, reduce inflammation, drain toxins, and increase immune function.

Question 9

Do I have to get lymphatic massages to heal properly after surgery?

Accepted Answer

Many people do not get lymphatic drainage massages after surgery and heal just fine.  The reason that post-surgical MLD has gained popularity is because clients find that it can significantly decrease recovery times, increase comfort, and enhance aesthetic outcomes.  Without MLD, post-surgical swelling and fibrosis can take over 12 months to resolve.  With MLD, most symptoms resolve within a few weeks to 6 months.

Question 10

What precautions are being taken for COVID-19?

Accepted Answer

We strictly adhere to CDC guidelines for COVID-19 precautions and align our practices with current local hospital-based policies. If you would like your therapist to wear a mask during the session, please do not hesitate to indicate so.  All of our equipment is thoroughly sanitized after each session, then once again at the end of each day.  Therapists will perform careful hand hygiene before and after each session.  Please feel free to contact us with any additional questions or concerns.

Frequently asked questions