What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage (LDM)?
Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a massage that reduces fluid retention, which is known to build up after cosmetic surgery. Health professionals continue to approve and recommend this type of massage.
By applying firm pressure through a gentle, repetitive, and soothing massage technique, the lymphatic system is activated to:
- Promote better circulation
- Improve muscle blood flow
- Detoxify the body
- Alleviate stress
- Act as an analgesic
- Relieve bruising and swelling
- Help the treatment of cellulite
- Reduce pain, discomfort, and sensitivity
This specialist treatment will help you feel well and more energised post-op. It promotes healthy circulation and muscle relaxation, thus aiding your body’s healing journey.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage for after Breast Cancer
Lymphatic Drainage Massage can support women undergoing surgery as part of their breast cancer treatment. The specialist massage is a way of reducing swelling caused by fluid build-up after cancer treatment. This includes procedures such as:
- Biopsy
- Lymph node removal
- Lumpectomy
- Mastectomy
- Breast reconstruction
Lymphatic Drainage Massage to Reduce Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema is commonly caused by the removal of lymph nodes after breast cancer. However, Lymphatic Drainage Massage can stimulate lymph drainage and move lymph fluid away from areas where it has collected to help reduce the swelling.
This is a gentle, specialised form of massage that does not inflict any pain or discomfort. Our trained practitioners perform it through a gentle and rhythmical treatment, which releases fluid from the affected area to an area where the lymphatic system works sufficiently.
For further information about cancer research and the benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage after breast cancer surgery, please visit Cancer Research UK
The Science Bits
Anti-thromboses socks: Otherwise referred to as compression socks, these provide faster, safer, and uncomplicated recovery after almost any type of surgery. Flexible yet snug, they will aid healing and stabilise results after an operation. Anti-thrombose socks are designed to be worn as much as possible, day and night until you can move around and return to your everyday routines.
Yoga compression garments: Compression garments help recovery following cosmetic surgical procedures. They are a vital part of after-surgery care, ensuring optimal postoperative recovery. In addition, these garments promote lymphatic drainage without affecting your skin or comfort. Our trusted supplier, Yoga Model, expertly designs these garments and is based in London, UK.
Garment inserts: Leggings and abdominal inserts support the surgical site. Inserts help avoid fluid retention, minimise post-surgery risks, and alleviate bruising. Inserts also work to optimise lymphatic drainage post-surgery.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage to Reduce Lymphoedema
Your lymphatic system is a network of tissues lying under the skin that works to protect you from infection, ill health, and disease. Your body comprises lymph vessels that move unwanted substances to lymph nodes, where they are cleaned and filtered by the lymphatic system.
With scientific knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system, our therapists use this emerging method – employed by hospitals and clinics worldwide – to alleviate swelling, bruising, and water retention.
Though this process happens naturally, LDM treatment will stimulate the pulsation of lymph vessels to accelerate this natural process. It revitalises the cellular environment in the area of the treatment area of your body.
Do I need Lymphatic Drainage Massage before surgery?
Many surgeons, and our Healing Shapers experts, strongly recommend lymphatic drainage treatments before any surgery. This is because it prepares the body area undergoing the procedures by stimulating the lymph vessels. Essentially, it cleanses your tissues, reducing the risk of more likely complications if the body has not been cleansed prior.
What benefits does LDM have after I have had my surgery?
Lymphatic drainage treatments are proven to reduce the risk of post-surgical complications, including infection, excessive swelling, bruising, and scar tissue that can lead to other complications.
LDM delivers immediate results. By reinvigorating the network of lymph vessels that move fluids around the body, it can reduce oedema and cellulite formation and activate blood circulation.
Can anyone have LDM?
Healing Shapers support men and women of all ages.
However, we cannot carry out the treatment on pregnant patients. Those interested should consult with their doctor to assess suitability. Lymphatic drainage is also unsuitable for some cancer patients as drainage cannot be performed while undergoing chemotherapy.
How else can Lymphatic Drainage Massage benefit me?
Lymphatic drainage is a miracle treatment supporting clients with an array of other symptoms and ailments such as:
- Weight loss and detoxing
- Fibromyalgia
- Swelling or oedema
- Skin disorders
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Stress
- Digestive problems
- Arthritis
- Migraine episodes