The Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massages After Laser Liposuction
For additional information, check out our Ultimate Guide to Laser Lipo.
Undergoing laser liposuction is a significant step towards achieving the body contour you desire. However, the recovery process plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal results. One technique that has gained popularity in recent years for enhancing post-liposuction recovery is lymphatic drainage massage. Let's explore the benefits of these massages and why they are recommended after laser liposuction.
What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
Lymphatic massage is a specialized massage technique that focuses on stimulating the lymphatic system, which plays a vital role in eliminating toxins and waste from the body. This gentle massage aims to encourage the movement of fluid from the interstitial spaces between cells into the lymphatic vessels, ultimately leading to its elimination from the body through the lymphatic system. A post-surgery massage following liposuction can contribute to the healing process.
Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage Necessary After Lipo?
One of the primary reasons your plastic surgeon may recommend lymphatic drainage massage after laser liposuction is the potential for accelerated healing and improved comfort. Patients experience numbness in the treated areas due to nerve trauma during the procedure. As the nerves begin to heal, the skin may become hypersensitive, causing pain or discomfort. The nerves and tissues are trained to become more pliable by undergoing lymphatic massage, reducing the likelihood of experiencing prolonged neuropathic pain characterized by burning or tingling sensations.
What Are The Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massages?
Preventing Lumps and Bumps
Massage therapy also contributes to minimizing the formation of lumps and bumps that can occur after liposuction. While there is limited scientific data to support this claim, many anecdotal accounts from surgeons and massage therapists suggest that regular massages help achieve smoother, more even results. A massage session works by manipulating the skin and underlying tissues, promoting collagen softening, and improving the texture of the treated areas. By applying light touch and gentle pressure and stretching the tissues, massage therapy assists in preventing the formation of fibrous and firm tissues that may cause discomfort or pulling sensations.
Faster Results
In addition to its potential effects on reducing pain and enhancing the smoothness of the treated areas, a post-op lymphatic drainage massage may also lead to quicker results. The massage stimulates the movement of interstitial fluid, facilitating its drainage into the lymphatic system and subsequent elimination from the body. As a result, patients who opt for regular massages after laser liposuction may notice improvements in swelling and see their desired outcome more rapidly than those who do not incorporate massage therapy into their recovery regimen.
Scar Healing
Beyond its impact on the treated areas, massage therapy can also prevent the formation of scar tissue. Scientific research conducted on scars in other areas of the body, such as the arms or hands, has demonstrated that regular massage, stretching, and manipulation of scars can lead to faster fading and increased softness over time. Consequently, it stands to reason that applying the same principles to the sites of liposuction may yield similar outcomes. By addressing the scars resulting from the liposuction procedure, massage therapy can contribute to the overall aesthetic improvement of the treated areas.
When Should I Schedule My Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
The recommended post-lipo lymphatic massage regimen following this cosmetic procedure varies among surgeons, but generally, it is advisable to start massages around two weeks post-surgery when pain is more tolerable. You should only book with a qualified or licensed massage therapist that has worked with patients who are healing after liposuction. Some surgeons even suggest starting massages as early as the first or second day if the patient can handle it. Otherwise, you can wait a few more days into the postoperative period.
How Many Lymphatic Drainage Massages Should I Have?
Typically, a minimum of five massages, twice a week, for at least two and a half weeks is recommended. However, many professionals suggest a package of 10 to 15 massages, scheduling them twice a week over a span of five to ten weeks. As the recovery progresses, the frequency of massages can be gradually reduced.
While scientific studies supporting the direct impact of massage on liposuction results are currently lacking, positive testimonials from both patients and professionals offer encouraging insights. Moreover, the proven benefits of massage therapy on scar healing further support its potential efficacy in the liposuction recovery process.
In conclusion, lymphatic drainage massages after lipo offer several advantages for individuals recovering from laser liposuction. From enhancing comfort and minimizing neuropathic pain to promoting smoother results and faster recovery, incorporating massage therapy into your post-operative care may contribute to an improved outcome. Consult with your surgeon and consider working with a skilled massage therapist to design a tailored massage plan that suits your needs and goals. Remember, patience and consistency in following the recommended regimen are key to maximizing the benefits of lymphatic drainage massages after laser liposuction.
If you're interested in Laser Liposuction, we recommend setting up an initial consultation. The treatment plan for candidates may vary based on their personal goals.
About Dr. Rivera
Dr. Rivera is a board-certified general surgeon and owner of The Ratio by Body Math in Columbia, SC. She received medical training at Yale University and completed her surgical residency at the University of Nevada. Dr. Rivera specializes in head and neck surgery and microsurgical reconstruction. She has published and presented her peer-reviewed research and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.