Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Vodder Method
Post-Surgical
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
What it IS - What it is NOT
and other things you should know
Post-Surgical Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Post-surgical Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle yet powerful form of bodywork that is intended to stimulate and encourage the natural movement of lymph which carries fluid (water) and waste products away from the tissues. It is a technique based on gentle, rhythmic and constant movements that encourage the rhythm of the body’s lymphatic system.
Post-surgical Manual Lymphatic Drainage is NOT opening up incisional wounds to push edema out of the body.
Why should you receive Manual Lymphatic Drainage after your cosmetic surgery?
After surgery, the body will generally swell at and near to the surgical site. This post-operative swelling, while completely normal, can be
uncomfortable. Reducing post-surgical swelling is one of the most common ways that Manual Lymphatic Drainage is used. Because of its ability to directly move excessive post-surgical edema while using the most gentle of touch, Manual Lymphatic Drainage is frequently regarded as an imperative part of the surgical recovery process by surgeons worldwide.
Postoperative Manual Lymphatic Drainage can help clients recover from a wide range of surgeries, including:
Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
Tummy Tuck/Abdominoplasty
Mommy Makeover
Liposuction
Fat Transfer
Arm/Leg Lift
Facelift
Breast Implant/Augmentation
Chin Liposuction
Mastectomy/Breast Reconstruction/Top Surgery
Do you have tissue fibrosis or lumps and bumps after surgery?
Fibrosis is a build up of scar tissue that can occur as a result of cosmetic surgery which can cause lumps and bumps in the subdermal tissues. It can sometimes be found on the lateral torso lower abdomen and back after liposuction. This consequence of liposuction is not ideal, It can sometimes be treated with other massage manipulations, but generally not MLD.
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MLD for Post Surgical Recovery
Over the past decade, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) has become an essential part of post-surgical recovery. Many clients now seek MLD after surgery, often mentioning that their surgeon recommended or even prescribed it as part of their follow-up care. This growing recognition highlights its effectiveness in supporting healing and reducing post-operative swelling.
The post-surgical case for MLD
Inflammation is at the heart of post-surgical healing. Surgery is trauma, and trauma triggers the body's natural response—swelling. While swelling is a normal part of the healing process, excessive or prolonged swelling can lead to discomfort and complications such as fibrosis, the formation of excess connective tissue that can result in hardness and restricted movement.
Accelerating lymphatic flow has been shown to reduce swelling and bruising in the affected area. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) plays a key role in post-surgical recovery—not only by helping to reduce inflammation but also by easing pain, stiffness, and bruising. Additionally, MLD may help minimize the risk of fibrosis by promoting proper fluid movement and tissue healing.
You may receive post-surgical MLD treatments within 3 days after surgery
Doctors who recommend post surgical MLD will sometimes suggest treatment as soon as 3-days after surgery. This early intervention assists with helping to minimize bruising and swelling. No work will be done on or near an incisional site this early-only after it has healed. In most cases, after 2–3 weeks, all work is considered safe unless complications arise during your recovery.
If you have issues with your surgical site, seek wound care or medical assistance, not MLD
One current trend we are seeing is that patients are opting to have cosmetic procedures performed remotely. Often the client returns home from a clinic with only instructions for local follow up. MLD is usually at the top of these lists, however, MLD is not wound care nor does it involve anything to do with an incision. If you are experiencing any issues such as excessive oozing, sharp pain, abnormal redness or other signs of infection, please seek competent local medical care or see your doctor.
Online videos are not an alternative to hands on MLD. But we can show you Self Care MLD strokes you can do at home
When time and budget allow, MLD is best performed by a trained therapist, however not everyone has the time or budget for a series of visits. If you want to do MLD self care at home, book a treatment with some extra time and go home with a self care routine that you know will be effective.
You Deserve Better Healing
Post surgical MLD is an excellent way to help promote the healing process and is appropriate for almost any surgery or procedure.
I specialize in treating clients recovering from a variety of procedures, including Lipo 360, mommy makeovers, breast reduction or augmentation, Brazilian butt lifts, abdominoplasty (tummy tucks), Cool Sculpting, brachioplasty, facelifts, hip replacements, shoulder surgeries, lumpectomies, mastectomies, and reconstruction, as well as gender affirmation surgeries.
If your case involves lymphedema, active cancer, or other complex medical needs, I have the expertise to provide specialized care. With hundreds of hours of training in oncology massage, lymphatic health, and Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), I am equipped to support your recovery with skill and compassion.
I would be honored to be your healing partner.