What is lymphatic drainage?
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a gentle therapeutic massage technique that stimulates the lymphatic system to remove excess fluid accumulated in the tissues. Through slow, rhythmic, light-pressure movements, the massage follows the pathway of the lymphatic capillaries towards the lymph nodes, promoting the drainage of interstitial fluid.
It is a fundamental technique in the post-operative phase of plastic surgery — particularly after liposuction and tummy tuck — but it is also used in the treatment of cellulite, water retention and oedema, and as an aesthetic and wellness treatment.
Main indications
- Post-operative recovery: after liposuction, tummy tuck, breast augmentation or facelift — reduces swelling, prevents fibrosis and shortens recovery times
- Cellulite: improves microcirculation, reduces water retention and smooths the tissue
- Water retention: reduces swelling of the legs, feet and ankles
- Oedema: indicated in primary or secondary lymphatic oedema
- Pregnancy: relieves the typical swelling of gestation (only in its most gentle form, on medical indication)
- Stress and wellbeing: relaxing, tension-relieving effect that also improves sleep quality
How the treatment is performed
Manual lymphatic drainage is performed by a qualified therapist on a treatment couch, in a calm environment. The manoeuvres are slow, rhythmic and of very light pressure (it is not a deep massage). Each session typically lasts 45–60 minutes. The number of sessions depends on the indication:
- After liposuction / tummy tuck: generally 8–12 sessions (starting after removal of the drains, usually on day 2–3)
- Cellulite and water retention: a cycle of 10–15 sessions, 2–3 times a week
- Maintenance: 1–2 sessions per month
Contraindications
Lymphatic drainage is contraindicated in the presence of: acute infections, deep vein thrombosis, heart failure, untreated hypothyroidism, and active cancer without a specific oncological indication. Suitability is always assessed before starting a treatment cycle.
Post-operative lymphatic drainage
After plastic surgery procedures — especially liposuction, tummy tuck and lifting — post-operative lymphatic drainage is an integral part of the recovery protocol at Dr. Galati's clinic. It significantly reduces swelling, prevents the formation of seroma and tissue hardening (fibrosis), and accelerates the return to a normal skin appearance.
Frequently asked questions
It depends on the indication. In the post-operative setting, 8–12 sessions are generally performed in the first 4–6 weeks. For cellulite and water retention, a cycle of 10–15 sessions is the usual starting point, followed by 1–2 maintenance sessions per month.
No, it is a very gentle massage. The pressure applied is light and the movements are slow and rhythmic. In the post-operative period there may be some sensitivity over the treated areas, but the treatment is not painful.
Post-operative results (reduction of swelling) are noticeable after the first 2–3 sessions. For cellulite and water retention, results are generally appreciated after 6–8 sessions.
After procedures such as liposuction, tummy tuck or facelift, manual lymphatic drainage significantly reduces swelling, helps prevent seroma and fibrosis, and speeds the return to a normal skin appearance. It is an integral part of the post-operative protocol at Dr. Galati's clinic.
Yes. Lymphatic drainage is contraindicated in the presence of acute infections, deep vein thrombosis, heart failure, untreated hypothyroidism and active cancer without a specific oncological indication. Suitability is always assessed before starting a cycle.