Everything You Need to Know About Lymphatic Massage

Cosmetic surgery is becoming more and more common — 18 million cosmetic surgeries were performed in 2018. If you plan to undergo cosmetic surgery or already have, you probably want a smooth and quick recovery.

The practice of Anthony N. Dardano, located in Boca Raton, Florida, offers lymphatic massage and other post-operative care to help you heal safely. Here we explain the details of a lymphatic massage and why you might consider it.

How your lymph nodes are affected by surgery

Your heart pumps blood continuously through your blood vessels. It depends on smooth muscles to transport liquid to the lymph vessels.

Cosmetic surgery generally involves nips and tucks. Your body often responds to these changes by swelling, inflammation, and lymphedema — the buildup of fluid in soft tissues when the lymph system is blocked. 

Although lymphedema is very common after surgery, it can be painful, and if it’s not treated, it could lead to more complicated health concerns like fibrosis or serum. 

Lymphatic massage

Lymphatic massage is one of the best ways to help your body heal after undergoing cosmetic surgery. Anthony N. Dardano uses lymphatic massages to stimulate the lymphatic system, reduce swelling, and clear out the toxins from your body. It can be incredibly useful in healing from surgeries like:

• Breast augmentation
• Liposuction
• Abdominoplasty
• Facelift

Dr. Dardano doesn’t just focus on the area that’s affected but instead treats the whole body. The entire lymphatic system, aside from the head, right chest, right leg, and right arm, all drain at the left side of your chest. 

Using very light pressure, Dr. Dardano applies rhythmic pressure to areas like the arm, armpits, stomach, back, legs, and chest. The massage generally lasts about 30-45 minutes, and many patients feel rejuvenated after.

Benefits

A lymphatic massage can help you get the best results from your surgery. Here are some of the other benefits you can expect:

• Reduce inflammation
• Improve circulation
• Reduce bruising
• Soften scar tissue
• Speed up healing
• Promote relaxation

You don’t have to undergo cosmetic surgery to experience the benefits of a lymphatic massage. People are incorporating this into their regular health and wellness routines. 

After your massage

The healing from a lymphatic massage extends after you leave our office. Here are a couple of tips to ensure you optimize your health and promote healing.

Drink plenty of water

Massages can be dehydrating, so it’s best to replenish your body with water. Drink 2-4 glasses of water after your massage to help properly flush out your lymphatic system. Drinking water helps flush your kidneys which are responsible for getting rid of toxins.

Wear loose clothing

Wearing loose clothing after a lymphatic massage can help promote lymph flow. This is best to make sure your lymph vessels can properly circulate. 

Be careful what you consume

Avoid alcohol for 24 hours and avoid caffeinated drinks. A light diet with raw, whole foods is best to boost lymphatic function and remove waste. Low sodium diets are best for a healthy and functioning lymphatic system.

Light exercise

Depending on how far you are in the recovery process, Dr. Dardano may suggest you perform light exercise. Activities like walking encourage muscle contraction and lymph flow.

Rest 

You might feel relaxed and tired after your massage. Listen to your body and do nothing besides laying and relaxing your muscles. This can regulate your blood pressure and promote healing.

Incorporate a lymphatic massage into your post-operative care today. Call 561-202-1248 to schedule your massage or book online.