The Importance of Post-Op Massage and Care

After surgery, it is important to follow your doctor's orders for post-operative care. This may include taking medication, icing the surgical site, and getting plenty of rest. However, one thing that is often overlooked is the importance of massage.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Post Op Massage can help to reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness after surgery. It can also help to improve circulation and promote healing. In addition, massage can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can be common after surgery.

The Importance Of Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage Post-Surgery

Surgical procedures disrupt the body's lymphatic system, which can lead to a range of complications. Lymphatic drainage massages reduce the risk of complications, help promote healing and, alongside the right supportive compression garments, are an important part of the recovery process. 

What is the lymphatic system?

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and nodes that helps to remove waste and toxins from the body. It also helps to fight infection and disease.

How does surgery affect the lymphatic system?

Surgery can damage the lymphatic vessels and nodes, which can lead to a build-up of fluid in the tissues. This can cause swelling, pain, and infection.

What is manual lymphatic drainage massage?

Manual lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle massage that helps to move fluid out of the tissues and into the lymphatic vessels. This can help to reduce swelling, pain, and infection.

What are the benefits of manual lymphatic drainage massage after surgery?

Manual lymphatic drainage massage after surgery can help to:

* Reduce swelling

* Relieve pain

* Prevent infection

* Improve healing

* Reduce scarring

* Enhance Results

When should I get a manual lymphatic drainage massage after surgery?

You should start getting manual lymphatic drainage massages as soon as possible after surgery. For recipients of liposuction, massages should be performed the next day after surgery. For recipients of a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty 7 days post op or soon as drains are removed. The sooner you start, the more effective the massage will be.

What procedures benefit most from manual lymphatic drainage massages?

Manual lymphatic drainage massages can benefit any type of surgery, but they are especially beneficial after the following procedures:

* Breast cancer surgery

* Lymph node dissection

* Liposuction

* Abdominoplasty

* Tummy tuck

* Hysterectomy

* C-section

Benefits of Post-Op Massage

There are many benefits to getting a massage after surgery, including:

* Reduced pain and swelling

* Improved circulation

* Reduced stiffness

* Reduced stress and anxiety

* Improved range of motion

*Prevent Fibrous (tissue hardening of surgical area)

*Prevent Seroma (pocket of excessive fluid)

 Be sure to properly wear compression garments to help to support the lymphatic system and reduce swelling. They should be worn after surgery 23 hours daily to help improve the effectiveness of manual lymphatic drainage massages. Manual lymphatic drainage massage is an important part of the recovery process after surgery. It can help to reduce swelling, pain, and infection, and it can also help to improve healing and reduce scarring. 

Post-surgery recovery is a crucial phase that requires proper care and attention to ensure optimal healing and minimize complications. Here are some general tips for post-surgery recovery:

1. Follow your surgeon's instructions: It is important to carefully follow the post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon. This may include taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and following specific dietary or activity restrictions.

2. Rest and allow your body to heal: Adequate rest is essential for the body to recover from surgery. Avoid strenuous activities and give your body the time it needs to heal properly.

3. Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet: Proper nutrition and hydration are important for the healing process. Make sure to drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support your body's recovery.

4. Take care of your incision site: Keep your incision site clean and dry as instructed by your surgeon. Follow proper wound care techniques to prevent infection and promote healing.When showering use antibacterial soap and make sure water temperature is lukewarm to cool. This will help reduce inflammation and risk of infection. 

5. Stay active within limits: While rest is important, gentle movement and light activity can help promote circulation and prevent complications such as blood clots. Follow your surgeon's recommendations for physical activity during the recovery period.

6. Manage pain and discomfort: It is normal to experience some pain and discomfort after surgery. Take prescribed pain medications as directed and use ice packs or heat therapy as recommended to help manage pain and inflammation.

7. Attend follow-up appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are important to monitor your recovery progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

8. Seek support: Recovery from surgery can be challenging both physically and emotionally. Don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team, family, or friends for support during this time.

By following these tips and taking good care of yourself during the post-surgery recovery period, you can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery process.

What Are The Risks Post-surgery If You Don't Have A Lymphatic Massage?

Without lymphatic massages post-surgery, healing times can be slower and lymphoedema, seroma or fibrous can occur.

A manual lymphatic drainage massage should start daily, reducing to 2-3 times a week as your recovery progresses.

Post op massages should be done every other day  or everyday for the first 7 days and then twice a week days 8 -21 . Then once a week. It is very important for good results to keep up with your post op massages.

ALL SERVICES ARE PERFORMED BY LICENSED INSURED NURSE AND MASSAGE THERAPIST!

A minimum of 8 -10 sessions is recommended for this service. A full all inclusive package is available.