Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Post-Surgical Recovery

If you’ve just had surgery such as a knee replacement, a tummy tuck, or anything in between you’re probably eager to get back on your feet. One technique I always recommend for my post-op clients is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). MLD is a targeted approach and can be a game-changer for surgical recovery.

Surgery is a controlled trauma. Your body responds with inflammation and swelling as part of the healing process. But sometimes, that swelling (or edema) sticks around longer than it should, slowing your recovery, increasing discomfort, and even affecting your surgical results. That’s where your lymphatic system comes in. It's responsible for draining away excess fluid, cellular debris, and waste products that build up after surgery.

MLD is a specialized, gentle technique that stimulates your lymphatic system, encouraging lymph fluid to move away from the surgical site and back into circulation for elimination. Unlike deep tissue massage, MLD uses light, rhythmic strokes that follow the natural pathways of your lymph vessels. Here’s what that means for your recovery:

• Reduces Swelling and Inflammation: By moving excess fluid out of tissues, MLD helps minimize that post-op puffiness and discomfort.
  
  
  

• Accelerates Healing: With less swelling and better circulation, your body can deliver nutrients to healing tissues more efficiently—speeding up your return to normal activities.
  
  
  

• Improves Scar Tissue Formation: MLD supports healthy tissue regeneration and can help minimize the formation of thick, restrictive scars.
  
  
  

• Decreases Pain and Bruising: By clearing out inflammatory byproducts and reducing pressure on nerves, MLD can make you feel better, faster.
  
  
  

• Prevents Complications: Regular lymphatic drainage can lower your risk of seromas (fluid pockets) and infections by keeping your immune system and fluid balance in check.
  
  
  

MLD is more than just a feel-good treatment, it’s a clinically supported intervention for post-surgical care. Studies have found that MLD reduces swelling, pain, and bruising, and can even improve mobility after orthopedic or cosmetic surgery. Some evidence suggests it may also enhance blood flow and help regulate your nervous system, supporting whole-body recovery.

• Anyone recovering from cosmetic procedures (like liposuction, tummy tucks, facelifts)
  
  
  

• Patients after orthopedic surgeries (joint replacements, ligament repairs)
  
  
  

• Cancer survivors dealing with lymph node removal
  
  
  

• Anyone experiencing prolonged swelling, stiffness, or slow healing after surgery

We start with an assessment, then use gentle, precise movements to clear the main lymphatic “hubs” before working around the surgical site. Most clients notice a decrease in swelling and discomfort within just a few sessions and often feel lighter and more mobile right away.

1. https://bestoahumassage.com/the-importance-of-post-surgery-lymphatic-drainage/

2. https://paulcdillonmd.com/blog/benefits-of-post-surgical-lymphatic-massage-after-plastic-surgery/

3. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21768-lymphatic-drainage-massage

4. https://www.petraerving.com/blog/postop-MLD

5. https://centreforsurgery.com/benefits-of-lymphatic-massage-after-cosmetic-surgery/

6. https://webermassage.com/manual-lymphatic-drainage-massage-post-surgery/

7. https://www.methodwellnesspt.com/blog/the-remarkable-benefits-of-lymphatic-drainage-massage-for-post-operative-recovery

8. https://www.femfirsthealth.com/lymphatic-drainage-massage-post-surgical

9. https://drbednar.com/the-benefits-of-regular-lymphatic-massages-for-post-surgery-recovery/

10. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10045879/