Lymphatic Massage

Lymphatic drainage massage is a specialized form of massage intended to improve immune function and expedite the healing process. At the esteemed medical practice of Dr. Jason Emer in Beverly Hills, lymphatic massage is a valued aftercare therapy for patients who have had cosmetic surgery. Dr. Emer is proud to work with highly qualified massage therapists who can provide effective lymph drainage for his patients.

Lymphatic massage, or lymphatic drainage massage, promotes optimal immune system function, blood circulation, and bodily fluid balance. Manual lymphatic drainage massage is performed by trained specialists who use gentle tissue manipulation to assist with mobilizing lymphatic fluid.

The goal of lymphatic massage after plastic surgery is to reduce swelling and support the body’s natural healing processes, so you can recover as quickly as possible. It is important to entrust your care to a qualified professional who understands the way the lymphatic system works and can accomplish the desired improvements in lymphatic flow.

The lymphatic system consists of vessels and lymph nodes, which work to eliminate toxins from the body’s tissues. Lymph nodes are tasked with filtering lymph, a substance that contains water, waste, proteins, and other debris, before it travels back toward the heart. The armpits, neck, and groin are the locations of the body’s largest nodes, though there are lymph nodes throughout the entire body.

After cosmetic surgery, lymph fluid can accumulate in soft tissue. Such fluid build-up causes swelling and discomfort and slows the disposal of toxins. Though fluid build-up is a normal response to plastic surgery, when fluids are not flowing efficiently, it takes longer for the body to heal and for patients to feel better.

Patients with certain health issues, such as heart, kidney, or liver conditions, may not be good candidates for manual lymph drainage. Be sure to consult with your physician or surgeon before pursuing this treatment.

If you have had a cosmetic procedure involving liposuction, surgical skin removal, implant placement, or surgical body lifting, you may be an excellent candidate for lymphatic massage in Beverly Hills. Additionally, lymphatic massage can be beneficial for patients who have not undergone cosmetic surgery but are affected by conditions like:

Unlike deep tissue massage and many other massage techniques, lymphatic massage involves applying light pressure without the use of lotions or oils on the skin. A treatment session can last 15-60 minutes.

The massage therapist will use gentle, rhythmic movements in specific areas of the body to promote the flow of lymphatic fluid. These movements may involve light compression, cupping, and/or stretching motions. Lymphatic drainage massage is not painful, nor will it cause the skin to become red.

There are two stages of lymph drainage massage. First, a clearing technique is used. This process invites fluid in, which works to flush the area of stagnant, unpurified lymph.

Clearing is performed at multiple sites, including the axillary lymph area, which is under the arms. Supraclavicular lymph clearing refers to clearing the area under the collarbone. The inside of the elbows will also be targeted for clearing.

The second stage is reabsorption. During this step, techniques are used to encourage optimal distribution of lymphatic fluids.

Rehydration and proper nutrition are essential for enhancing the effects of lymphatic massage. You will need to drink extra water, as directed, after lymphatic drainage massage. This will help to flush waste and toxins from the body. You will also be advised to keep processed foods out of your diet and instead to eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

Optimizing the flow of lymphatic fluid can provide many benefits to patients recovering from plastic surgery, including:

The recommended number and frequency of lymphatic massage sessions varies depending on the procedure(s) performed. Typically, daily message sessions are advised for the first 7-14 days, followed by bi-weekly sessions for up to a month. Weekly lymphatic drainage massages can then be continued until complete healing has occurred.

Dr. Emer provides patients access to several post-op aftercare therapies in addition to lymphatic massage, including:

The price of lymphatic massage varies based on the patient’s specific needs. The overall cost of your lymphatic drainage treatment will be discussed with you prior to scheduling your massage session(s).

This gentle, effective therapy can be advantageous to support recovery from cosmetic surgery, as well as to provide relief from numerous other conditions. To find out how you can benefit from manual lymphatic drainage, contact our office.