Post-Surgical Manual Lymph Drainage
What it is and what to expect
What
Post - Surgical Manual Lymph Drainage (PSMLD) is a gentle, rhythmic massage technique that uses light, precise pumping and circular strokes to stimulate lymphatic flow and move excess fluid away from swollen or congested tissues toward healthy lymph nodes. It decreases postoperative swelling, helps clear cellular debris and protein-rich fluid that impede healing, and supports immune function by enhancing lymph circulation and toxin removal. Performed with careful attention to surgical sites, anatomical drainage pathways, and appropriate pressure, PSMLD is commonly integrated into post‑surgical care to reduce edema, minimize scar-related complications, and speed recovery.
Why
Post‑surgical Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) reduces swelling and accelerates clearance of surgical fluids and metabolic waste by gently stimulating lymph flow, which supports healing and decreases pain after surgery. It also minimizes postoperative inflammation and fibrosis while improving tissue oxygenation and mobility, promoting faster recovery and greater comfort.
Need to know
Post-surgical manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a gentle, rhythmic technique that uses light, specific strokes to encourage lymph flow, reduce swelling, and support healing after surgery. Clients should know it feels very light, may produce gradual improvements over several sessions, and is not a replacement for deep-tissue work—always consult your surgeon before booking.
Is it for me?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) after surgery helps reduce swelling, speed recovery, and prevent or treat post-surgical lymphedema by gently stimulating the lymphatic system. Consider booking post-surgical MLD if you have visible swelling, tightness, limited range of motion, heaviness/numbness/pressure, firm or adherent tissue, delayed healing or recurrent fluid buildup, a diagnosis or risk of lymphedema (for example after lymph node removal or radiation), your provider recommends it, or you had cosmetic or orthopedic/soft-tissue surgery and want to minimize swelling, bruising, and fibrosis.