Lymphatic Massage
in Los Gatos, CA
A Path to Faster Healing
Lymphatic Massage at InHands Postoperative Therapy
At InHands Postoperative Therapy, we're your partners for comprehensive post-op care and recovery. Our team of experts combines targeted recovery therapies with expertise and compassion to ensure you have the best possible results following surgery. Lymphatic massage at InHands Postoperative Therapy is focused on improving the function of your lymphatic and circulatory systems, accelerating recovery, and minimizing complications
What is postoperative lymphatic massage?
Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle massage technique that supports healing post-surgery by focusing specifically on the lymphatic system, a critical part of your immune system. The lymphatic system removes toxins and keeps a healthy fluid balance circulating throughout your body. After surgery, the lymphatic system can be disrupted, causing areas of congestion and swelling. Lymphatic massage helps to improve circulation and allows the body to release toxins more efficiently. As a result, patients realize a much faster recovery time and less risk of infection.
At InHands, we also believe in empowering our patients with knowledge and peace of mind with each aspect of their postoperative care. Our founder and lead occupational therapist, Heather Gavric, OTR/L, CLT-LANA, CCST, understands that each client has unique concerns and goals, and she is passionate about providing the best possible results.
How does lymphatic massage work?
Lymphatic Massage provides the following postoperative benefits:
- Redistribution of lymphatic fluids to reduce swelling
- A faster healing process with less downtime
- Much greater overall comfort
- More satisfying results from your surgical procedure
At InHands, we have a very individualized approach to patient recovery. We’ll tailor a protocol that supports your specific goals. After one session, many patients see visible results and feel relief from skin tightness. However, we may suggest multiple sessions for the best long-term results.
The Gentle Touch That Heals
What is the lymphatic massage procedure like?
Lymphatic massage is very different from traditional massage therapies. During your lymphatic massage, you'll experience gentle, systematic pressure along your lymphatic pathways.
- When should you start?: The timing of your first lymphatic massage depends on your procedure and the recommendation of your surgeon. The following are general guidelines; however, your doctor or health practitioner may modify them as needed.
- Face/neck procedures: Start seven to ten days after surgery, twice a week for two to three weeks, and then once weekly for two to three weeks..
- BBL/liposuction: Begin three to five days post-surgery, two to three sessions per week for two to three weeks, then once a week for three to four weeks.
- Tummy tuck/mommy makeover: Start one to two weeks after surgery, two to three weekly sessions, then once a week for two to three weeks.
- Breast procedures: Begin one to two weeks post-surgery, twice a week for two weeks
- Orthopedic/other procedures: Contact us for personalized recommendations
Overall Wellness
Types of Lymphatic Massage
Lymphatic Massage for Overall Wellness
Lymphatic Massage may be applied anytime to enhance your body's natural detoxification and boost overall health. Using the renowned Vodder Technique, our experts perform gentle, rhythmic strokes to activate lymph nodes, redirect stagnant fluid, and support immune function. This relaxing full-body treatment is designed to improve your overall wellness and maintain a healthy fluid balance.
Post-Operative Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Specialized postoperative lymphatic massage can be very beneficial to your overall healing journey. Our clinical experts tailor each treatment to your specific needs, using techniques that follow your body's natural drainage pathways. This approach effectively addresses post-surgical swelling, providing substantial relief and comfort within the first session. Depending on the procedure, optimal results may be achieved through multiple sessions.
Orthopedic Surgery Lymphatic Treatment
Targeted postoperative lymphatic massage pain after orthopedic surgery is designed to offer immediate relief and improved mobility so you can return to daily activities as quickly and comfortably as possible. A 50-minute treatment session uses light touch to engage lymphatic tissues and reduce swelling and inflammation.
Oncologic Lymphatic Treatment
Lymphatic sessions can also address the late- and long-term effects of cancer treatment. By focusing on improving lymphatic function, our specialists can help reduce tissue burden and enhance skin and soft tissue mobility. This treatment aims to decrease nerve pain, reduce stress, and improve the overall quality of life for cancer survivors.
Transforming Post-Op Recovery
What conditions does lymphatic massage address?
At InHands Postoperative Therapy, we tailor our lymphatic massage techniques to your needs, ensuring you receive the most effective treatment for your unique recovery journey. Our expert care can significantly affect how you feel and how quickly you recover after surgery.
Post-Surgical Swelling (Edema)
Our gentle massage techniques stimulate lymph flow, reducing fluid buildup and decreasing swelling faster than your body can.
Pain and Discomfort
By reducing swelling, we alleviate pressure on nerves and tissues, significantly reducing pain and improving your comfort during recovery.
Bruising
Lymphatic massage helps your body clear away bruising more efficiently, speeding up the healing process and improving your appearance sooner.
Scar Tissue Formation
Our techniques can help soften and reduce scar tissue, promoting even healing and potentially improving the final appearance of your surgical scars.
Fibrosis (Hardening of Tissues)
Regular lymphatic massage can prevent and reduce fibrosis, keeping your tissues soft and pliable for better long-term results.
Seroma Formation
Our massage techniques can help prevent the formation of seromas (fluid-filled pockets following surgery) and assist in their resolution if they do occur.
Delayed Wound Healing
By improving circulation and reducing swelling, we create an optimal environment for wound healing, potentially speeding up your recovery time.
Compromised Skin Sensation
Our gentle touch techniques can stimulate nerves and help to recover sensation in areas affected by surgery.
Lymphedema Risk
For surgeries that involve lymph node removal or damage, our specialized techniques can help manage lymphedema risk and symptoms.
Post-Operative Fatigue
By improving lymph flow and reducing the body's inflammatory response, we can help alleviate post-operative fatigue, helping you feel more energetic during your recovery journey.
Greater Comfort Sooner
What are the benefits of lymphatic massage?
Lymphatic massage performed by a highly trained professional helps in the following ways:
- Improved flow of lymphatic fluids
- Restored sensory pathways
- Decreased pain
- Reduced scar tissue formation
- Increased comfort with your post-op body
Invest in Your Recovery
Am I a candidate for lymphatic massage?
Lymphatic massage offers tremendous benefits for the following individuals:
- Recent surgery patients (primarily cosmetic, orthopedic, or cancer-related surgeries)
- Surgery patients with prolonged swelling or edema
- Individuals with slow-healing wounds
Lymphatic massage may not be appropriate for:
- Those with active infections or fever
- Patients with certain heart conditions (consult your doctor)
- Individuals with blood clots or a high risk of blood clots
- Those with active cancer (unless cleared by an oncologist)
What to expect:
- Gentle, non-invasive technique
- Visible reduction in swelling often after the first treatment
- Improved comfort and mobility over time
- Optimal results following a series of treatments
InHands Postoperative Therapy’s mission is to provide every client with a smoother, more comfortable healing journey. Let us develop a treatment program that works for you.
Heal Faster, Feel Better
Learn simple lymphatic self-massage techniques.
Your body has incredible healing potential. With the proper care and techniques, you can return to feeling like yourself faster than you thought possible. At InHands, we understand that patients may feel apprehensive about body treatments after surgery. That's why we offer guidance for lymphatic massage techniques you can perform at home.
Immediate Relief and Relaxation
Results you can see and feel.
The good news is that relief after lymphatic massage often begins immediately. Within 24-48 hours, you may notice visible reductions in swelling, with natural healing happening over time. For optimal results, we typically recommend three to five sessions scheduled over two to three weeks.
While immediate swelling reduction can be felt after each session, the long-term benefits are even more impressive. You can experience improved lymph flow and reduced swelling long-term with an entire treatment course. We suggest periodic maintenance sessions to maintain these results and support your body's natural healing processes.
Lymphatic Massage
Frequently Asked Questions
Our skilled therapists use very light pressure and gentle, rhythmic movements. Few patients may experience mild sensitivity in sensitive areas, especially during the first few sessions after surgery. However, most find the treatment to be relaxing and soothing. A postoperative treatment session should never involve pain, so always communicate if something feels uncomfortable.
The frequency of lymphatic massage depends on your specific surgery and recovery needs. Generally, we recommend:
- Two or three sessions per week for the first two weeks post-surgery
- One or two sessions per week for the following 2-3 weeks
- Maintenance sessions as needed
While lymphatic massage is not primarily a weight loss treatment, it can support your body's natural detoxification and reduce water retention. This may result in a temporary reduction in body measurements. However, sustainable weight loss should be combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
For lymphatic massage, wear loose, comfortable clothing. Depending on the area being treated, you may need to partially undress. At InHands Postoperative Therapy, we provide appropriate draping to ensure your comfort and modesty throughout the session. For post-surgical patients, we recommend bringing any compression garments your surgeon prescribes so they may be assessed for proper style and fit.
Absolutely! While lymphatic massage is particularly beneficial for post-surgical recovery, it can also help with ongoing conditions such as:
- Chronic swelling or lymphedema
- Sports injuries
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Joint pain and stiffness
Consult with our team at InHands to see if lymphatic massage could benefit your specific health needs.
