Lymphatic Drainage After Surgery: Timing and What to Ask Your Surgeon

Swelling is a normal part of recovery. After surgery, especially procedures that disturb tissue over a wide area, fluid can collect while your body repairs. Gentle lymphatic drainage massage supports the body's own fluid movement and can make recovery feel more comfortable. It's commonly suggested after body-contouring procedures, and sometimes after facial or other surgeries.

Only when your surgeon says so. Timing varies by procedure, extent and how your body recovers. At Flourish, post-surgery sessions start at least 4 weeks after your surgery, and only with your surgeon's clearance. Don't book before you have clear guidance.

1. When can I start lymphatic drainage massage?
2. How many sessions do you recommend, and how often?
3. Are there areas the therapist should avoid?
4. Should I keep wearing my compression garment during and after sessions?
5. What signs should make me stop and call you?

Bring the answers, and any written instructions, to your first session.

1. We review your surgery date, procedure and your surgeon's instructions.
2. You're positioned comfortably, with support for tender areas.
3. The therapist uses very light, slow, directional strokes, working around incisions and unhealed areas, never over them.
4. Pressure stays gentle throughout. Tell your therapist if anything is uncomfortable.
5. Afterwards: water, a gentle walk if you're able, and your compression garment back on as prescribed.

At Flourish, sessions are performed by Amir Norouzi, whose background includes post-surgical and wound care. His practical understanding of recovery shapes how he works around areas that are still recovering.

Follow your surgeon's plan. Once you start, at least 4 weeks after surgery, several sessions over the following weeks are common, so we offer series of 3, 6 or 10 at a lower per-session price. Prices are on the treatment page. If you have a Flourish account, remaining sessions show under Packages.

Stop and contact your surgeon promptly if you notice:

• fever or chills;
• spreading redness, warmth or discharge from a wound;
• pain that's increasing rather than easing;
• pain, swelling or warmth in one calf (a possible blood clot);
• shortness of breath or chest pain. Call 911.

Rest, stay hydrated, walk gently as your surgeon allows, and keep wearing compression as directed. Being close to the clinic helps. Many clients choose Flourish because a short trip is easier during recovery. See our area pages: Yaletown, Downtown Vancouver, the West End.

See our Post-Surgery Recovery Support page and What Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?