Post-Op Lymphatic Drainage
Post-Op swelling, fluid retention & inflammation are normal.
Manual lymphatic drainage supports the body’s natural recovery process by encouraging gentle fluid movement and reducing congestion in affected areas.
We specialize in safe, gentle, stage-appropriate techniques designed specifically for surgical healing for cosmetic surgery patients throughout Greenwood Village, Centennial, and the South Denver Metro area.
Common Procedures We Support
Abdominal Liposuction | Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) | Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) | Breast Augmentation | Breast Reduction
Breast Lift | Leg & Hip Liposuction | Face and Neck Lift | Arm and Thigh Lift
What Is Post-Op Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle, targeted manual therapy designed to support the lymphatic system both before and after cosmetic surgery.
After surgery, the body experiences:
• Swelling
• Fluid stagnation
• Inflammation
• Bruising
• Temporary fibrosis formation
Manual lymphatic drainage helps encourage fluid movement, reduce congestion, and support smoother healing.
We follow a conservative, medically respectful approach that is appropriate for early-stage recovery.
We NEVER compromise an incision site, or load the healing tissue with forces it isn’t ready for.
When Should You Start Post-Op MLD?
Most patients begin lymphatic drainage within 5–10 days after surgery, depending on their surgeon’s protocol.
Some surgeons love MLD and recommend it 3 days out, while others are slower to embrace post-op manual therapies and prefer a 6 week waiting period.
We always recommend:
• Surgeon clearance before beginning
• Avoiding aggressive pressure early in recovery
• Following drain removal timing when applicable
If you are unsure about timing, reach out to your surgeon.
Again, we follow a conservative, medically respectful approach appropriate for early-stage recovery.
What to Expect During Your Sessions?
Post-operative lymphatic drainage with us is gentle, rhythmic, focused on lymphatic pathways, and never aggressive
This is not deep tissue massage. Early sessions prioritize fluid redirection and swelling management. As healing progresses, sessions may address mild fibrosis and tissue mobility as appropriate.
(As an aside for those of you who want to know, since we get this question more and more frequently; NO, we do not offer incisional drainage. The forcible drainage / aggressive squeezing of surgical incisions to push out fluid is considered “the unlicensed practice of medicine by massage therapists” throughout the United States and is therefore illegal for me to offer. I quite like my career and intend to do it for many years to come…I’m not playing around with this.)
How Many Sessions will you need?
Recovery timelines vary, but many patients schedule 6–12 sessions in the first 4–6 weeks
• 2–3 sessions per week early on, with gradual tapering as swelling improves
Your plan will depend on surgery type, amount of swelling, travel timelines, and surgeon recommendations. We can create a customized recovery schedule at your first appointment.
Serving Greenwood Village, Centennial & The South Denver Metro
We serve clients throughout Centennial, Highlands Ranch, Greenwood Village, Lone Tree, Littleton, and the greater Denver metro area.
Our studio is private, appointment-only, and designed for surgical recovery comfort.