Lymphatic Massage
Lymphatic drainage massage is a type of massage performed by Registered Massage Therapists that has become a commonly sought form of aftercare following any type of cosmetic or reconstructive surgery. Its goal is to strategically encourage the flow of lymph fluid through the lymphatic system, reducing buildups of fluid that contribute to swelling. This makes it particularly beneficial following surgical procedures that are prone to causing swelling during recovery, such as liposuction. We welcome patients to pursue lymphatic massage treatment and have put together the following resources for you.
- For procedures that involve skin excision, such as mommy makeovers, tummy tucks, thigh lifts, or arm lifts, treatment can begin at two weeks post-op as advised by your surgeon.
- For patients who have solely had liposuction, massages can begin as early as 4-8 days post-op as tolerated.
- Therapist-provided massage can be performed 1-3 times per week.
- Self-massage can be added daily according to your therapist’s directions.
- Intensity can progress over time.
- Deep tissue massage can begin at 4 weeks post-op.
- Results will vary depending on the individual.
Lymphatic Massage Providers in Toronto
We’re pleased to direct you to the following lymphatic massage providers:
If you have an existing massage therapist or are seeking a location more convenient for you, we advise confirming with the provider that they are familiar with post-operative lymphatic massage. If you have had an outstanding experience and feel they should be added to our list, please let our team know.
In addition to lymphatic massage, we recommend two other types of massage to help with recovery from your surgical procedure.
Daily Tissue Massage
- This type of massage is performed on your own at home on a daily basis.
- The massage technique involves the circular motion of the fingertips and/or palms over the areas that were treated with liposuction.
- Massage should begin gently at two weeks and become progressively deeper with more pressure applied over the next two weeks. By four weeks after surgery, this type of tissue massage can be performed as much as possible and with as much pressure as you can tolerate.
- Each ‘area’ should be massaged for 1-2 minutes at least once per day.
The feeling of tenderness is normal. - Over time, stiff and swollen areas will start to feel soft and more mobile. Areas that continue to feel stiff or more swollen require more frequent massage.
- This type of massage should become a normal daily routine, i.e., every time you shower, for up to three months following surgery.
Scar Massage
- In addition to daily tissue massage, specific attention should be paid to massage of the scars themselves.
- This massage technique involves running the fingertips along the length of the scar, back and forth, for 30-60 seconds. The use of a scar gel, moisturizer, or Vaseline is often helpful.
- Scar massage should begin with gentle pressure at two weeks and become progressively deeper with more pressure applied over the next two weeks. By four weeks after surgery, scar massage can be performed as much as possible and with as much pressure as you can tolerate.
- This type of massage should become a normal daily routine for up to three months following surgery.
