Lymphatic Drainage Massage After Surgery
A Guide to Faster Healing
If you're recovering from surgery—especially cosmetic, orthopedic, or reconstructive procedures—lymphatic drainage massage can dramatically improve your healing timeline. At Athletic Recovery Center in Monrovia, we specialize in post-surgical recovery massage designed to reduce swelling, accelerate tissue repair, and support your body’s natural detox systems.
This gentle, medically-supported therapy is trusted by surgeons and recovery experts alike. Here's why it works and how we deliver results for clients across the San Gabriel Valley.
What Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
Lymphatic drainage massage (also known as manual lymphatic drainage or MLD) is a light-touch technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system plays a critical role in removing waste, toxins, and excess fluid from tissues.
After surgery, this system often slows or becomes overwhelmed due to inflammation, tissue disruption, and immobility. Lymphatic massage helps restore flow and reduce swelling (edema), particularly in the face, abdomen, arms, or legs, depending on the procedure.
Post-Surgical Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage
1. Reduces Swelling and Bruising
Surgical swelling is caused by fluid buildup. MLD accelerates the removal of this fluid by directing it toward functioning lymph nodes. The result is less puffiness and faster visible recovery.
2. Speeds Healing and Tissue Regeneration
Improved lymph circulation brings immune cells and oxygen to healing tissues, helping repair incisions, reduce scar tissue, and prevent complications like fibrosis.
3. Relieves Pain and Discomfort
Gentle, rhythmic massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms inflammation and discomfort. Clients often feel a soothing, almost sedative effect after treatment.
4. Prevents Complications Like Seromas
By keeping lymph fluid moving, MLD helps prevent seromas (fluid pockets) and reduces the likelihood of infection or delayed healing.
5. Supports Detox and Immune Function
The lymphatic system also filters out pathogens and waste. Keeping it flowing helps your body cleanse itself from surgical anesthesia, pain medications, and inflammation byproducts.
Who Should Consider Lymphatic Massage After Surgery?
Our Monrovia clients seek lymphatic massage after:
- Cosmetic surgeries (BBL, tummy tuck, liposuction, facelift, breast augmentation)
- Joint replacements or orthopedic surgery
- Cancer-related surgery (with medical clearance)
- C-section or abdominal procedures
- Trauma, injury, or scar revision
We often work with clients referred by local surgeons in Pasadena, Arcadia, and Monrovia.
What to Expect at ARC Monrovia
Sessions at Athletic Recovery Center are tailored to your body and stage of healing. Our licensed massage therapists have experience in post-surgical care and use non-invasive techniques that align with your surgeon’s instructions.
We may also combine your session with:
- BEMER Therapy to improve microcirculation
- Red light therapy to stimulate cellular regeneration
- Stretch therapy or compression when appropriate
All services are administered in a clean, supportive setting with your comfort as a top priority.
FAQs About Lymphatic Drainage Massage
After Surgery
Is it painful?
No. This is a gentle technique, not a deep tissue massage. It should feel calming and soothing, not painful.
How soon after surgery can I start?
Most clients begin 3–5 days post-op with surgeon approval. Early treatment improves outcomes and prevents excessive fluid buildup.
How many sessions will I need?
A typical post-surgery recovery plan includes 6–10 sessions over several weeks, but we customize frequency based on your procedure and progress.
Is this covered by insurance?
Generally no, unless prescribed for specific medical conditions. However, we offer affordable packages and flexible scheduling.
Can I get MLD if I’m still bruised?
Yes. In fact, it helps clear bruising faster by stimulating blood and lymph flow in the affected area.
Book Your Post-Surgical Recovery Massage
in Monrovia
Healing after surgery doesn’t have to be slow or painful. Our experienced team at Athletic Recovery Center offers compassionate, targeted lymphatic drainage massage that supports real results.
