Post-Surgical
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
What it is
Lymphatic drainage utilizes different rhythmic hand motions to activate the lymphatic system and encourage lymph flow. The techniques used in the Vodder Method employ a light touch—much lighter than a typical massage stroke.
For post-op MLD, session sequences are composed to meet the needs of what specific surgery or surgeries you received and your incision placement(s). They are designed to be as effective, and short in duration, as possible to make sure they help you heal and not cause additional stress. This will look different week-to-week as you recover.
Why it’s helpful
MLD aids the recovery process by encouraging the lymphatic system to flush and filter excess fluid which reduces swelling and processes toxins for a proper immune response. MLD also reduces pain and the chance of developing scars or fibrosis.
Surgery can temporarily reduce the effectiveness of the lymphatic system in addition to demands placed on it. MLD helps the lymphatic system to function as it would so it can properly help your body heal.
When to have treatment
Your surgeon will ultimately decide when it is safe for you to begin receiving MLD, but it is generally considered safe 2-4 days after surgery. The first 4-6 weeks are when MLD is most beneficial; not only because that initial phase of your recovery is delicate, but because it also keeps things moving while you’re on exercise/movement restriction.
MLD and compression therapy go hand-in-hand, so receiving MLD for as long as you’re expected to wear your recovery garment is typical. Some people feel more confident in their recovery to get touch up sessions once they’re no longer using their garment.
In short, critical sessions begin 2-4 days after surgery and are suggested until 4-6 weeks after surgery. From 4-6 weeks is good to have. Anything after is nice to have.
How frequently to have treatment
For the first two weeks, it is recommended to have sessions every other day. Some people feel more comfortable coming daily for their first week, and this is a matter of preference. It’s best to listen to your body (and surgeon) as the demands of traveling to and from appointments every day might outweigh the benefits of additional MLD treatments.
For the next two weeks, twice a week is recommended, though this again varies from person to person. For the remaining two weeks, once a week is recommended.
Week 1 & 2: Every Other Day (3x per week)
Week 3 & 4: 2x per week
Week 5+: 1x per week as desired
Frequently Asked Questions
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No, MLD is not supposed to hurt. In fact, some techniques only employ fingertips. It is a gentle encouragement to your lymphatic system to help your body heal.
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In general:
3x/week for two weeks,
followed by 2x/week for two weeks,
and 1x/week for two weeks as, necessary.
So typically 10 for your first month of recovery. -
Sessions are $95 each, or $800 for a package of ten session ($80/session).
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You probably won’t, but if you do, don’t worry about it! They get thrown out eventually anyway.
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Absolutely. They are nitrile so you likely won’t even notice.
If they bother you, I can forego them once your incisions have fully healed, per your surgeon.
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Not for post-op MLD.