Frequently Asked Questions About Lymphatic Drainage Massage Prior to Treatment Session:

(Here are some Lymphatic Drainage Massage Questions Answered and LDM Tips you need to know to create a successful manual Lymphatic Drainage treatment session more effective and enjoyable.)

 

Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

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Q1.)What is a Lymphatic drainage massage?

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A1.) Simply speaking, a lymphatic drainage massage is not like a regular massage which usually involves deep pressure that massages the muscles. Instead, our treatment uses a light pressure because the lymphatic system is close to the surface of the skin. Your qualified therapist uses different pressures in key lymphatic areas of the body to improve the circulation of lymph fluids throughout the lymphatic system. The waste and toxins from bodily tissues are removed through the fluid in the lymphatic system helping with detoxification.

A post-lymphatic surgery massage is a specialized technique designed to help patients recover faster and more comfortably after plastic surgery procedures such as liposuction, tummy tucks, and BBLs. These massages focus on reducing swelling, minimizing bruising, and promoting healthy lymphatic flow.

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Q2.) What are the benefits of a lymphatic drainage massage?

 

A2.) There are a huge list of benefits when considering our lymphatic treatments. If a lymphatic system has any blockages it can cause an equal amount of all sorts of health issues. Our bodily cells rely on lymphatic fluid which is full of disease-fighting white blood cells, to transport substances, communicate with other cells, and help them carry out their main functions. Through the technique of our lymphatic drainage massage, we manually help to kick start this process. This helps to reduce fluid retention, get rid of inflammation, encourage hormonal balance, improve digestion, speed up healing and surgery recovery, assist muscle recovery, boost immunity, improve blood circulation, detox the body, and much more!

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Q3.) How can a post-surgery lymphatic massage benefit me after liposuction, post-tummy tuck recovery, and help aid in Brazilian butt lift recovery ?

 

A3.) Post-liposuction lymphatic massages can help reduce swelling and improve the overall contour of treated areas, aiding in faster recovery and more satisfactory results.

Lymphatic massages are particularly beneficial for tummy tuck recovery. They can help minimize post-operative swelling and improve skin tightness in the abdominal area.

Lymphatic massages can help maintain the shape and appearance of your newly enhanced buttocks after a BBL by promoting proper blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.

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Q4.) How Does Manual Lymphatic Drainage Work?

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A4.) Normally, the lymphatic system collects lymph fluid and returns it to your heart through the lymph vessels and nodes. But when there’s a disruption to your lymphatic system’s process, such as the removal of lymph nodes during surgery for breast cancer, the fluid can collect in your arms and legs, which leads to swelling. The medical term for swelling is edema, so the condition is called lymphedema.

Certified therapists commonly use MLD to relieve swelling by coaxing lymph fluid from your tissues to your functioning lymph nodes. Unlike traditional massage, lymphatic drainage massage uses light pressure to mobilize the lymphatic system, which lies directly beneath the skin.

MLD follows a specific sequence, starting with the main drains in the body, including the lymph nodes in the neck, groin and armpits. The idea is that by massaging an area where there is no swelling, the congested lymph fluid will have somewhere to go because you’ve created space for it.

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Q5.) Can lymphatic massage help speed the recovery time post-op?

 

A5.) Recovery after plastic surgery procedures like liposuction, tummy tucks, Brazilian butt lifts (BBL), and others can be challenging, but post-surgery lymphatic massages can make a significant difference in the healing process.  Provided you have a medical referral, we recommend starting your lymphatic drainage treatment as soon as possible. We normally advise having a mild first treatment 3 days after your surgery as it hugely reduces the symptoms of bruises, swelling, stiffness, scars, lumps and soreness that is quite common after post-op. However, you may also start our post-operative treatments as early as 1 day later with your doctor’s recommendation/clearance. For quickest recovery, come in once or twice a week for three to four weeks (this could vary depending on how your body reacts to the treatment and if you have already developed fibrosis).

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Q6.) What should I do after my lymphatic drainage massage?

 

A6.) We recommend rest, light exercise, 2-4 glasses of water and eat well. Avoid drinking caffeine, alcoholic beverages, and eating heavy meals for the next 3-6 hours. If you include an infrared sauna treatment as well, please do not expose your skin to the sun until six hours after your treatment, as the products are still in effect.

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Q7.) Can post-surgery lymphatic massages help with scar management?

 

A7.) Yes, lymphatic massages can aid in scar healing by promoting proper circulation and tissue regeneration.

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Q8.) What are the side effects of our lymphatic treatments?

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A8.) It is possible to experience headaches, nausea, and fatigue after a lymphatic drainage massage through the detoxification process. If this happens, we recommend rest and drinking plenty of water to help flush the toxins out. Don’t hesitate to call us if you have any concerns or questions.

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Q9.) Are there any restrictions or precautions I should be aware of?

 

A9.) Your specialist will provide you with specific instructions and precautions tailored to your surgery and recovery needs.

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Q10.) What is a Faja? What are the benefits of wearing a Faja after surgery and should I be wearing one?

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A10.) In Spanish, “faja” usually refers to a girdle or waistband worn to provide support or shape to the abdomen and back. In Albanian, “faja” means “belt” or “sash.” Fajas are compression garments designed to help patients recover after plastic surgery. They are made up of powernet which is a blended fabric containing Nylon and Spandex that applies gentle pressure to the body. The compression provided by fajas helps reduce swelling and inflammation after surgery, as well as provides support to the surgical site. Fajas have been found to incredibly decrease post-operative pain.

Fajas are recommended after procedures like liposuction, abdominoplasty, or Brazilian butt lifts, as these procedures can cause significant swelling and bruising. Fajas compress the area and improve blood flow, which can help reduce these side effects and speed up the healing process.

Benefits of wearing a Faja after plastic surgery

*Reduced swelling and bruising: One of the most significant benefits of wearing a faja after plastic surgery is that it helps reduce swelling and bruising. The compression provided by the garment helps push fluid out of the area and improve circulation, which helps reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of the surgical site.

*Improved comfort: Fajas help support the body. They distribute the body’s weight more evenly, which can help reduce discomfort and pain.

*Improved results: Wearing a faja after plastic surgery improves the final results of the procedure. By supporting the body and helping reduce swelling and inflammation, fajas help create a more toned and contoured appearance.

A Randomized control trial held by Summaya Saeed in 2019 showed that the use of abdominal binders postoperatively significantly reduced pain and improved mobility in both obstetric and surgery patients. It scientifically outweighs the use and benefits of fajas.

Here at Savvi Body Inc, we highly recommend using this product to further help the healing process after your surgery. In conclusion, fajas are extremely helpful for patients who have undergone plastic surgery. By providing compression and support to the body, they reduce swelling and bruising, improve comfort, and ultimately improve the final results of the procedure.

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Q11.) How long should a faja be worn?

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A11.) One of the most common questions patients have when it comes to fajas, is how long they should wear them. The answer to this question varies depending on the individual and the type of procedure they had done, but some general guidelines can be followed. In general, patients are advised to wear fajas for a minimum of 4-6 weeks following their surgery. During this time, the garment should be worn continuously, only removed for showering and washing. 

After the initial 4-6 week period, patients may be advised to continue wearing the faja for an additional 2-4 weeks, but can gradually decrease the amount of time they wear it each day. It is done by gradually reducing the number of hours per day the garment is worn until it is no longer needed.

*It is important to note that every patient’s recovery process is unique and that the length of time a patient should wear a faja may vary depending on the type of procedure they had done, their healing process, and their surgeon’s recommendation. In some cases, patients are advised to wear a faja for longer periods or to wear a custom-made faja designed specifically for their body and their procedure. In these cases, patients should follow the specific instructions of their surgeon or healthcare provider.    

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Q12.) How do I choose the right faja for my specific needs? And what are some side effects of wearing fajas?

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A12.) Consult with your plastic surgeon: Your plastic surgeon can recommend the best type of faja for your specific procedure and body type. They also recommend specific brands or styles that are particularly effective. 

Wearing a faja that is too tight leads to shortness of breath, digestive problems such as acid reflux, and some skin problems. It can exacerbate "intertrigo" which is a rash due to yeast that resides in the skin folds. Misuse of a tight Faja corset can lead to a liver hematoma that can be fatal. To avoid all these unfortunate events, a proper professional consultation is mandatory while considering Fajas post-operatively or even for body contouring.

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Q13.) Who cannot have this treatment?

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A13.) We cannot perform our lymphatic treatment on anyone with blood clots or DVT. If you are currently undergoing chemo therapy for cancer, we are also unable to massage you, however for clients in remission and with your doctors clearance, we are able to carry out lymphatic treatment. Some conditions will need a referral from your doctor such as edema that is the result of kidney failure, heart failure, or liver disease.

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Q14.) How many treatments do you recommend post surgery or if I am doing a detox LDM?

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A14.) Since everyone’s body reacts differently to Lymphatic drainage massages, we customize our treatments to suit each individual clienteles needs. Generally speaking, we advise booking in a series of sessions. If you are Post-Op for injury surgery or corrective surgery, then we advise booking 10-20 massages (2-4 massages per week for 3-10 weeks), or however many you were instructed to receive from your Surgeon. If you are looking to have LDM for improving body functions as well as detox we advise, one lymphatic drainage massage treatment per week for 3 weeks and then continue treatment once a month for upkeep. If you experience a high frequency of common colds, allergies or headaches, one or two lymphatic drainage sessions every three months is very beneficial.

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Q15.) Does the lymphatic drainage massage hurt?

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A15.) During a lymphatic drainage massage, your qualified therapist applies a combination of soft and hard pressure in key areas to unblock the lymphatic flow. This technique is completely painless!

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Q16.) How long before a special occasion should you get the treatment to best see the results?

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A16.) Having a lymphatic massage before an event or wedding is very popular as it not only helps to de-bloat the body to look your best, but can also improve deep sleep and stress levels. We recommend that you come in frequently for up to a month leading up to the event. As every body reacts differently to this treatment, we urge our clients not to have your first lymphatic treatment within a week prior due to possible side effects.

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Q17.) Can you have this treatment during your menstrual cycle?

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A17.) Yes, our signature treatment can actually help relieve the symptoms of menstrual cramps. Through our Lymphatic drainage technique, we help to remove excess body fluids, decrease swelling and improve the menstrual flow. This relaxes the muscles of the abdomen, minimizing pain and discomfort. Having said that, it is ideal to come in before and after your cycle to be proactive in treating these symptoms. However, if you come in during your cycle that is absolutely ok as well.

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Q18.) Does lymphatic drainage help improve fertility? Especially in women undergoing IVF treatment?

 

A18.) There is large evidence to suggest that massage therapy increases your chance of falling pregnant. This is due to the direct effect lymphatic drainage massage can have on a hormone imbalance. Women’s hormones are best known for controlling their menstrual cycle. As the lymphatic system circulates blood flow and hormones through your body, it is very important that it works functions properly to deliver your reproductive hormones necessary for your fertility. Because of this, medical experts may recommend a lymphatic drainage massage to assist conception methods like IVF. For best results, when booking, please let us know if high fertility is your main goal, so we can sync your menstrual cycle with the treatment.

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Q19.) Is there an age restriction for this treatment?

 

A19.) If you are under the age of 18 you will need authorization from a parent or guardian to have this treatment.

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​Q20.) Which complaints and clinical pictures can be treated with a lymph drainage therapy?

 

A20.) Medical lymph drainage is recommended for:

• Venous insufficiency,

• Carpal tunnel syndrome,

• Raynaud’s syndrome (vascular disease with seizure-like vascular spasms)

• and neuropathy

• chronic edemas

• Gout

• Arthrosis

• Post-traumatic care (burns, resorption, scar care)

*In addition, a manual lymph drainage on the thigh or a mechanical lymph drainage of the legs relieves swelling and pain.

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​Q21.) Is it possible to submit the lymph drainage massage treatment to the health insurance company?

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A21.) With a prescription from your doctor, it is possible to submit this to your health insurance company with the invoice after prior payment to us. Reimbursement varies depending on the health insurance company, which we have no influence on. In addition, the costs of treatment are covered by many private insurances.

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Q22.) ​Is it possible to do a manual lymph drainage for cancer?

 

A22.) The gentle pressure therapy promotes your well-being and at the same time provides relaxation. For this reason, a oncology medical massage or lymphatic drainage is recommended as a complementary treatment for cancer, but only after clarification and approval by your treating physician. After node resection, radiotherapy, or after the removal of body tissue or body parts, it is particularly important to regain harmony with the body. The treatments carried out by our trained Savvi Body Inc experts provide valuable support.

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​Q23.) When can the first positive results be expected?

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A23.) Depending on the degree of severity, even small successes can be seen after each initial lymph drainage massage. To treat lymphedema, one needs up to about 10 lymph drainage treatments.

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Q24.) Can I Do Lymphatic Drainage Massage Techniques on Myself at home, after I'm done with my lymphatic drainage massage treatment sessions?

 

A24.) Yes, and the technique is simple. The idea is to use very light pressure to massage the area and push fluid that’s causing swelling back toward the heart. Move your fingers in a motion that creates the letter “C,” gently massaging tissues that are NOT swollen.

Since lymphatic drainage massage acts on the skin, it’s important to avoid using oils or lotions during the massage.

There are other ways to pamper your lymphatic system, too, including:

• Deep breathing: Breathing slowly and deeply can help move fluid through the lymph vessels and nodes. Place both hands on your belly and focus on expanding your belly as you inhale and contracting your belly as you exhale.

• Physical activity: Exercise helps move fluid throughout the body. Even a 15- to 20-minute stroll can help your body shift fluid around and eliminate waste. A short jog while focusing on deep breaths also does the trick.

• Dry brushing: Dry brushing has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to keep the lymphatic system healthy while exfoliating the skin. Just move the brush in circular motions starting at the extremities and working your way toward the trunk of the body.

• Swimming: Moving through water provides built-in compression for your body, so swimming is a great way to get your lymph fluid moving.

• Tap your skin: Tapping the area just above the collarbones with light pressure can activate the lymph capillaries beneath the skin.

If you think that your lymphatic system may be compromised, talk to your doctor before attempting to do MLD on your own at home.

If you have lymphedema, it’s important to work with a certified lymphedema therapist who is specially trained in lymphatic drainage massage and can teach you how to do the proper techniques. It’s also important to note that lymphatic drainage techniques are not recommended for people who have a heart condition or kidney problems.