You can generally start lymphatic drainage treatments 24 hours after surgery, but the exact timing depends on the type of procedure you’ve undergone and your surgeon’s specific recommendations. In some cases, particularly after tummy tucks, we advise starting at around day 3-5 post-op to reduce swelling and fluid buildup.

The key is that manual lymphatic drainage treatments should never cause sharp or intense pain. If you experience pain during the treatment, it’s important to communicate this with the therapist so they can adjust the pressure or avoid sensitive areas. In most cases, the treatment is relaxing and can even help ease discomfort by reducing swelling and fluid buildup, which often contributes to post-surgical pain. Since post-surgery areas may be tender or swollen, some discomfort can occur, especially if the surgical area is sensitive.

In the end, we are confident the benefits of manual lymphatic drainage treatments will outweigh any discomfort you may feel. You should feel completely rejuvenated, more pliable and flexible, and experience an overall feeling of well-being after treatment.

Most patients will have two manual lymphatic drainage treatment sessions per week for 4-8 weeks post-surgery. Each individual’s journey is unique, and we advise you to listen to your body and its needs during this time.

Yes, manual lymphatic drainage treatments can offer several benefits even when surgical drains are in place after surgery. While surgical drains help remove excess fluids from the surgical area, lymphatic drainage treatment complements this process by encouraging the natural flow of lymphatic fluid and improving overall healing. It’s important to have a manual lymphatic drainage treatment performed by a trained therapist who is familiar with post-surgical care. They will know how to work around the drains and avoid interfering with the healing process.

Yes, we believe coordinated care provides for the best possible results for patients.

No, fluid does not directly come out of your body during a manual lymphatic drainage treatment in the way it would from a surgical drain or wound. Instead, manual lymphatic drainage treatment stimulates the natural movement of lymphatic fluid through your lymphatic system, helping the body to process and eliminate excess fluid more efficiently.

The lymphatic system moves fluid through lymph nodes, where it is filtered, and then the fluid is eventually returned to the bloodstream. From there, the body processes the excess fluid and waste through normal bodily functions, like urination. While you may notice reduced swelling and an overall lighter feeling after a session, the fluid is eliminated naturally over time rather than coming out of the body during the treatment itself.

Yes, many plastic surgery patients switch from healing/recovery to tightening/toning/slimming manual lymphatic drainage treatments for life as these sessions help tighten skin and keep the surgical areas sculpted.

Both are options. Your care team can help coordinate an at-home/hotel appointment with Liquid Sculpt.