by: Kevin Rebman, Chief Myotherapist, NREMT
Have you recently had surgery and want to accelerate your recovery? Post-surgical Manual Lymphatic Drainage (PS-MLD) is a gentle technique that helps reduce swelling, enhance circulation, and support your body’s natural healing process. If you’re unfamiliar with PS-MLD, it’s a focused, therapeutic method designed to assist your body in clearing excess fluid and promoting recovery. Many people face challenges after surgery, such as swelling, discomfort, and fluid buildup. It can be tough to feel like yourself again when your body is still adjusting, but PS-MLD offers a solution. This approach is more than just a massage; it’s a targeted treatment that helps your body recover and heal more effectively.
But here’s the good news: PS-MLD massage can speed up recovery after surgery. At Return to Play Institute (RTPI), we have highly-trained, skilled therapists who understand the lymphatic system and how to manipulate it to benefit your unique needs. Whether your goal is general wellness or post-surgical recovery, the therapists at RTPI craft a personalized approach to your care so you feel better.
Key Things You Need to Know About
Post-Surgical Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Post-surgical manual lymphatic drainage (PS-MLD) is a gentle, non-invasive technique that supports the recovery process after surgery. Unlike traditional lymphatic drainage, PS-MLD targets the unique needs of individuals healing from surgery. This method helps reduce swelling, promotes tissue regeneration, and reduces the risk of complications like fibrosis and seromas. By assisting your body’s natural systems, PS-MLD speeds up recovery and helps you feel better faster. Here are a few important details to know before scheduling a PS-MLD session.
When Can You Start Post-Surgical Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
You might think you need to wait weeks before doing anything after surgery, but did you know you can start PS-MLD just a few days after your procedure? In fact, waiting too long to begin treatment can actually delay your recovery. Early treatment helps reduce the risk of fluid buildup, scar tissue, and other complications. I’ve seen clients who started treatment as soon as possible bounce back much quicker than those who waited. One woman came in three days after her tummy tuck, and by the end of the week, she noticed a dramatic reduction in swelling and felt a lot less stiff. Starting early really can make a huge difference!
Choose a Therapist with Medical Training
Now, let’s talk about why it’s so important to choose the right therapist for post-surgical manual lymphatic drainage. Any massage therapist can do it, but here’s the thing: you need someone with training in medical procedures. A therapist with the right training knows how to manage delicate things like incisions, scars, and potential complications from surgery. It enables you to get the safest, most effective treatment. I’ve heard horror stories from people who tried DIY methods or went to untrained therapists—issues like infections or even worse complications. It’s worth it to spend a little more time finding a qualified therapist (like the ones from RTPI) who understands the ins and outs of post-surgical recovery. Trust me, it’s better than risking a setback.
Pushing Fluids Through Unhealed Incisions is NOT PS-MLD
It’s crucial to note that post-surgical manual lymphatic drainage does not involve reopening surgical incisions to expel lymphatic fluid manually. Unfortunately, some therapists or massage practitioners may suggest this method, but it is illegal and potentially harmful. In the U.S., only licensed medical professionals, such as nurses, should perform any procedure that involves reopening incisions for fluid extraction, and this should only occur under strict medical conditions. If anyone proposes this practice to you, it’s good to politely decline and seek out a properly trained PS-MLD therapist instead. The goal of PS-MLD is to assist the body’s natural healing process, not force fluids out of unhealed areas.
Avoid Relying on YouTube Tutorials for PS-MLD
You might be curious about performing post-surgical manual lymphatic drainage (PS-MLD) on your own. While there’s plenty of helpful information online, it’s important to prioritize professional care, especially for something as crucial as post-surgical recovery. Some online tutorials promote techniques that could hinder your progress or even cause setbacks. For example, one client of mine tried some at-home methods she found online, but they didn’t yield the results she hoped for. After seeking professional care, she quickly experienced significant improvements in just a few sessions.
PS-MLD Does Not Use Brushes, Tools, or Cupping
Now, about the tools—some people might suggest using cups, brushes, or rollers for lymphatic drainage. But here’s the thing: PS-MLD doesn’t use any of those. It’s a hands-on approach, using gentle, skin-based movements to encourage the lymphatic system to clear out fluid. Anything else can disrupt the process and even cause harm. One therapist I know likes to say, “The hands are the most important tool,” and it’s true. When done properly, the hands can apply the perfect amount of pressure and direction without disrupting the natural flow.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Can I Start Post-Surgical Manual Lymphatic Drainage after Surgery?
You can start post-surgical manual lymphatic drainage as soon as three days after surgery, based on your doctor’s guidance. Early treatment supports the healing process by reducing the risk of complications such as fibrosis and seromas. Taking this step helps speed up your recovery.
Is It Safe Post-Surgical Manual Lymphatic Drainage for All Types of Surgeries?
Yes, post-surgical manual lymphatic drainage is safe for all types of surgeries, including cosmetic procedures like liposuction and breast augmentations, as well as more invasive surgeries like knee or hip replacements. However, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to confirm its suitability for your specific recovery. Our trained therapists focus on providing a safe and comfortable experience throughout the treatment.
Is Post-Surgical Manual Lymphatic Drainage Painful?
No, Post-Surgical Manual Lymphatic Drainage is not painful. The treatment is gentle, and some people may experience mild tenderness or a sensation of pressure, but it should never be painful or uncomfortable. If you feel pain, speak up and adjust the pressure.
Can Post-Surgical Manual Lymphatic Drainage Help Scar Tissue?
Yes, post-surgical manual lymphatic drainage can help with scar tissue by encouraging proper circulation and lymphatic drainage, promoting healthier tissue healing. However, advanced scarring may require additional treatments like physical therapy or other modalities.
Your Recovery, Your Journey
Surgery recovery can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Post-surgical manual lymphatic drainage offers a gentle and effective way to support your healing and help you feel like yourself again. Although this treatment often goes unnoticed, it can significantly speed up recovery. If you’ve recently had surgery and wonder how PS-MLD could help, reach out to a therapist with experience in post-surgical care. They will assess your needs and guide you through the process.
At Return to Play Institute, we’ve seen how post-surgical manual lymphatic drainage helps clients recover more quickly and feel better. If you’re ready to take the next step in your recovery, book a session today. The right tools can simplify healing, and post-surgical manual lymphatic drainage may be the solution you need.
Lymphatic Drainage Session
Call Return to Play Institute Today!
Return to Play Institute, LLC
5275 Edina Industrial Blvd, #210, Edina, MN 55439
(763) 270-9330
