Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Lymphatic massage, or manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), is a specialized type of medical massage, using light touch to move excess lymph and fluid out of the tissues and back into the lymphatic vessels. Lymphatic fluid flows through lymph vessels, which connect lymph nodes. As it passes through the lymph nodes, white blood cells trap and destroy harmful particles, such as bacteria. Gentle manual treatment improves the reabsorption and promotes drainage of fluid accumulated in the body.
The lymphatic system is an extremely important as it helps to eliminate extra fluid from the body . It also removes waste products and toxins from the body tissues. This can be used to facilitate detoxing the body and reduce recovery time after surgery.
MLD increases lymph production; increases venous return; its soothing and serves as an analgesic for pain; decreases the tendency of fibrotic tissue formation; improves the activity of lymph vessels; improves the reabsorption of and promotes drainage of fluid accumulated; removes waste products of cell metabolism.
Why is MLD important after cosmetic / plastic surgery?
Lymphatic drainage is recommended after having any kind of plastic surgery due to the body’s natural response to having invasive surgery such as, liposuction is to swell up. To reduce the swelling, bruising and bring the body back into balance, MLD is needed.
What are the benefits of MLD?
-Speeds up the healing process by reducing swelling, fluid retention and bruising.
-Increasing the removal of cellular debris and other waste from the traumatized area.
-Reduces scar formation (build-up of fibrotic nodules/hard lumps)
-Improves skin texture and tone.
-Decreases risk of infection by improving immune response.
– Decreases pain, sensitivity and touch-avoidance by speeding the healing process.
-Support relaxation and relieves stress.
Ideally one to 3 sessions are recommended prior to surgery. Sessions can start as soon as 24-48 hours following the surgery. MLD can be done as frequently as daily. During your consultation we will come up with a customized treatment plan including the surgeons post op protocol if applicable.
Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy and infrared light therapy have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which can be beneficial for conditions such as arthritis, muscle pain, joint pain, and injury. Light therapy has also been shown to stimulate the production of collagen, which is a protein that helps promote skin health and wound healing. In addition, it’s also been shown to provide effective relief by activating the lymphatic system, increasing endorphins serotonin release, stimulating metabolism, reducing inflammation, and detoxing the body. For optimal health and wellness benefits, pair with MLD and IV therapy!
