Lymphatic massage can be performed prior to and after your surgical procedure. Pre-treatment helps to make sure that your lymphatic system is working well at the surgical site even prior to surgery. This can often reduce the severity of postoperative swelling. Having a lymphatic massage after surgery helps to re-open lymphatic channels at the surgical site and can reduce post-surgical pain. In addition, at The Piazza Center in Austin, we have noticed that by decreasing the swelling at the surgical site, patients feel like they gain flexibility and have improved mobility as they recover from surgery.
Common Questions About Lymphatic Massage Therapy
Here are some of the most common FAQ’s we get when it comes to lymphatic massage therapy:
Does lymphatic massage hurt?
There may be mild discomfort with the treatment, but most patients report that they feel significant relief of pain and tightness in the surgical area after a massage.
What does lymphatic massage feel like?
It feels like light pressure with the fingertips to re-open lymphatic channels and to move the fluid (swelling) back into these re-opened channels. It is a gentle experience and very different from traditional Swedish or sports-style massage therapy.
When do you recommend starting lymphatic massage?
For patients who have had liposuction or body contouring procedures in the past and are having revision surgery in that area, we recommend starting lymphatic massage therapy several weeks prior to surgery. This helps to make sure that the lymphatic system is working properly.
Oftentimes, scar tissue can cause prolonged post-surgical swelling in the treatment area from previous scar tissue formation in the tissue. Also, for tummy tuck and liposuction patients, we recommend starting lymphatic massage 7-14 days after surgery. This significantly decreases post-surgical swelling and speeds up the recovery process.
How frequently should I have a lymphatic massage?
This depends largely on your responsiveness to the therapy. We recommend that you follow the guidance of your therapist with regard to the treatment frequency.
Are there any supplements that I can take to decrease post-surgical swelling?
Yes! We recommend Arnica and Bromelain. We also recommend this bundle of supplements to help accelerate healing post-surgery:
- BPC-157:
- Promotes faster healing of tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments).
- Aids in efficient post-surgical recovery by accelerating tissue repair.
- N1O1 (Nitric Oxide):
- Enhances circulation by dilating blood vessels.
- Increases oxygen and nutrient delivery to healing areas, reducing swelling and bruising.
- VitaMedica Arnica Montana 30x:
- Reduces bruising, swelling, and discomfort post-surgery.
- Accelerates healing by promoting better circulation and reducing fluid buildup.
- Homeopathic remedy.
- Stamets7:
- Boosts the immune system with a blend of seven medicinal mushrooms.
- Strengthens the body's defenses to protect against infections and speed up post-surgical recovery.
Recommended Lymphatic Massage Providers in Austin, TX
These are two of our trusted partners when it comes to lymphatic massages:
Stormy Caldwell at Texas Lymphatic Clinic
Stormy Caldwell is a highly skilled Lymphatic Therapist and Nurse. Stormy is the owner of Texas Lymphatic Clinic, a luxury mobile lymphatic drainage service that specializes in providing post-op care in the comfort of your own home.
To schedule an appointment or to learn more about how lymphatic massage can support your healing, feel free to contact Stormy directly:
Call or Text: (979) 208-8277
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://texaslymphatic.clinic/
Austin Lymphatic
Austin Lymphatic has two central Austin locations with a very talented team of providers who we have worked with since our practice opened in 2010. They specialize in post-op care for our surgical patients and have consistently done an outstanding job with this work for over a decade.
Call: (512) 751-8146
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.austinlymph.com
We recommend reaching out to these providers. They can assess your healing progress based on their experience and how your tissue responds. Trust their recommendations and guidance.
Learn More About Post-Operative Swelling
At The Piazza Center, our goal is to provide you with education and information to enable you to make an informed decision when deciding to have a surgical procedure and to achieve the best possible outcomes. To learn more about the risks of post-operative swelling and how to minimize its effects, please read our blog post, How Do I Manage Swelling After Surgery?
Rocco C. Piazza, M.D is the owner of The Piazza Center plastic surgery practice in Austin, TX and is a Diplomate of The American Board of Plastic Surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, as well as a national spokesperson for the ASPS. Call (512) 288-8200 and visit the website www.ThePiazzaCenter.com.
