POST-OP T treatment: Reasons Why Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is so important after Surgery

Those who have gone through a surgery, know that water retention, swollen, hematoma, lumpiness, etc., are the most common sequels after this kind of procedures. This is completely normal right after surgery. But don´t worry, Manual Lymphatic Drainage has come to the rescue! In this blog, I want to share with you the benefits of MLD in your post-op treatment.

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual Lymphatic Massage helps to move the fluid by gently pumping it back into the lymph vessels, reducing the swelling, retention of fluids and pain after the surgery. Without Lymph Massage (MLD) the inflammation can evolve into fibrosis (a permanent hardening of the tissue) or a seroma (pocket of serum). For these and many more reasons, many  Surgeons prescribe MLD as part of your post-op treatment.

What are the Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

MLD is a extremely light treatment although it may feels uncomfortable during the first week or not (according to the type surgery) after the procedure as the area might be very sensitive to touch. It is based on scientific knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the Lymphatic System.  The Vodder Method (MLD) is used in many hospitals, clinics and is prescribed as a post-op treatment all over the world because it helps to:

• Reduce swelling, bruising and water retention.
• Avoid or treat seromas and fibrosis.
• Reduce stress and anxiety after surgery.
• Speed up the recovery process.
• Reduce pain.
• Stimulates kidney functions.
• It’s useful for the treatment of blood circulation problems (venous insufficiency).
• Reduce or treat  lymphatic problems.
• Stimulates the immune system, increasing the body’s own defenses.
• Helps to protect your body against bacteria and viruses as it works in conjunction with the immune system.
• It has a calming effect on the autonomic nervous system.
• Its direct effect on the parasympathetic system generates a relaxing effect.
• Tones the intestine, which helps fight constipation.
• Regulates the body’s water balance.
• Lowers blood pressure.
• And the list continues, know more benefits click here

How many treatments will I need?

Most surgeons recommend MLD after the surgery. However, it makes a significant difference before the surgery, as it helps to filter waste and toxins, excess of fluid, viruses and bacteria preventing any infection before the surgery. Also increase the production of lymphocyte production (white blood cells) that help heal cuts and damage tissue. In short, it helps your body to be ready for the surgery.

We normally recommend between 5 to 12 sessions depending on the area, procedure and the recovering process which is deferent in each person.

Also, patients who get multiple procedures at the same time (like in plastic surgery cases: lipo and a tummy tuck, or liposuction  and a buttock enhancement; Brazilian Butt Lift, etc.) may need more sessions than someone who only gets one procedure.

How often should I get MLD?

The first week we suggest one sessions daily (according to your needs), as it helps significantly with the inflammation and the elimination of fluids.  The second week, every other day, follow by maintenance one per month for the next 5 months for better results.

When should I have my first Manual lymphatic drainage?

The sooner you start your drainage the better. We normally recommend having the first drainage 24hours after the surgery as MLD is gentle enough and drastically reduces the appearance of bruises, swelling, stiffness, burn shooting pain, scars, lumps, bums and soreness that often occurs after the surgery.

What happens if I don´t get MLD after surgery?

Your recovery process is going to be slower and the risk of having post-op complications will increase.

What is a MLD treatment like?

Firstly, you complete your medical form follow by the initial consultation, were your therapist will assess the type of surgery and stage of the surgery, any open drainages, bruises, inflammation to determinate the best way to perform the drainage. It is probably that you will be weak in the first week, your therapist will help you to undress and to get in the couch and you will be fully cover with a towel. During a MLD session you will feel: gentle, rotating, pumping motions.

Usually the entire session is performed with you lying in the face-up position because all of the areas of lymph nodes that need to be decongested are located on the front of the body, although some surgeries do require the patient to turn side to side, sit up or face down for a short time if tolerated.

After the session, your therapist will help you to wear you garment (when needed), get ready and will give your home after care treatment.

Do I always need a referral for MLD?

No. Although most surgeons recommend MLD, it is also perfectly fine to self-refer, remember that you can start your MLD session before surgery to get ready for it..

We hope this information is useful. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help.

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