Post-Op MLD by Timeka Hunt Certified Lymphadema Therapist

Hey! So you've had  surgery and now you're wondering what's the deal with post-op lymphatic drainage? I'll break it down for you. 

If you've recently undergone plastic surgery (cosmetic or reconstructive), orthopedic surgery, fibromyalgia, oral/dental procedure MLD could be your new best friend. 

Post-op MLD is all about helping your body heal and recover after surgery. Its a specialized type of massage that focuses on stimulating the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in removing toxins and waste from your body.  MLD aids in speeding up the healing process by boosting your immune system.

Post-Op MLD can improve the body's defense mechanism by carrying immune cells throughout our system. By enhancing its function, this type of massage can support your body's natural healing process by reducing swelling, decreasing bruising, and faster recovery from surgical trauma.  

The benefits don't just end there! This type of bodywork can also work wonders for acne prone-skin by promoting detoxification and helping clear  out impurities. MLD can help with rheumatoid and osteoarthritis and including the following. 

• Migraine and chronic headaches
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Multiple sclerosis
• Venous insufficiency
• Irritable Bowl Syndrome- Crohn and Ulcerative Colitis
• Constipation
• Fibromyalgia
• Circulatory interruptions
• Cleansing and detoxifying
• Soothing- by decreasing sympathetic nervous system
• Through rhythmic precise hand movements, Analgesic- MLD alleviates pain by greatly reducing the pain signals sent to the brain. 

Just to name a few.

Firstly, it's importance to schedule regular sessions with your therapist. Consistency is key when it comes to MLD. Make sure you follow the recommended treatment plan and don't skip any sessions. One to two sessions per week is the norm, or just occasionally to boost your system. However, after cosmetic surgery, it is strongly recommended twice a week for 4-8 weeks to reduce scarring and speed healing. 

You should schedule your first MLD session 3-4 days after surgery. We work around plastic drain tubes/cups, scars and incisions. You will need MLD 2x/ week  for up to 6weeks,although some clients are finished after 3 weeks. Some clients schedule for their first session several weeks or months after surgery when they are experiencing lumps and fibrosis at the surgical site. This is very late and makes our job harder, and delays your overall healing by several weeks. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO START MLD AFTER-CARE RIGHT AWAY. 

in addition to professional sessions, following the recommended treatment plan at home is crucial. Your therapist will teach you self massage techniques that you can do on your own. These exercises help stimulate lymph flow and enhance the healing process. 

It does NOT involve deeply pushing lymph out of the body through incisions and it is NOT painful. If anyone claims to provide this type of therapy or if you experienced discomfort during a session, chances are it wasn't true MLD. 

So remember, finding a qualified therapist who specializes in the Vodder Technique Manual Lymphatic Drainage is essential  for successful recovery.  Stick to the treatment plan both in clinic and at home. Please don't hesitate to address any concerns or doubts with your therapist along the way. 

It is importance to drink plenty of water and get up and move around. Most patients feel very relaxed after their session. You'll need to follow your Doctor's specific recommendations for exercise and activity. Ask your doctor's office how long they want you to avoid placing pressure on fat transplans. All Doctors are different so it is importanct to speak to your  surgeon directly about this. 

All sessions within packages are 1.5 hour sessions. 

10 sessions- $1100

5 sessions- $525

1 session- $130

Post surgery- 1-10 days we are only doing light lymphatic drainage focusing on moving stagnant fluid which causes the built up swelling.

Fibrosis Massage- 45minutes - $115

This is characterized by thick dense tissue and large knots. It is important that this is addressed immediately and regularly. This is a totally different technique. This sometimes occurs 3 weeks post surgery. 

All consultations are FREE. I will ask about your plastic surgery physician:

• Physician's full name
• Practice name 
• Practice Phone number
• Patients specific surgery and date. 
• Your specific goals and/or problems

We may require written specifics about your surgery and goals from your physician.