What Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage and Who Is It For?

It's a specialised massage technique aimed at the lymphatic system, not the muscles. Strokes are slow, soft and rhythmic, moving toward the body's lymph nodes, especially those in the neck, armpits and groin. The goal is to support the movement of lymph fluid, which can leave you feeling lighter and less puffy.

At Flourish, our Lymphatic Drainage Massage is our most-booked body treatment. Sessions are 60 minutes.

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and nodes that collects excess fluid from your tissues and returns it to the bloodstream. It also plays a role in immune function. Unlike blood, lymph has no pump. It moves with muscle movement, breathing and pressure changes. When you're still for long periods (a flight, a desk day, recovery from surgery), fluid can build up and you may feel puffy or heavy.

Lymph vessels sit just under the skin. That's why effective lymphatic massage is so light: deep pressure works on muscle, while gentle pressure moves lymph.

• After surgery: many surgeons recommend it for swelling during recovery from cosmetic and other procedures. Always get your surgeon's clearance first. See Lymphatic Drainage After Surgery.
• Puffiness and heaviness: after travel, long days on your feet, heat, or around the menstrual cycle (swelling and fluid retention).
• Bloating: many people say they feel lighter afterwards (bloating and digestion).
• Relaxation: it's one of the gentlest massages there is.

1. A conversation about why you're coming in, including any surgery date and your surgeon's guidance.
2. You lie comfortably with draping for privacy.
3. Light, rhythmic strokes, usually starting at the neck to "open" the main drainage points, then working through the body toward the lymph nodes.
4. Most people find it deeply relaxing, and many fall asleep.
5. You may need the washroom soon after. That's normal.

It can support lymph flow, help you feel lighter and less puffy, and support comfort during post-surgery recovery as part of your surgeon's plan.

It can't remove fat or change your weight, and it isn't a medical treatment. If your swelling has a medical cause, or is new or doesn't settle, see your doctor first.

After surgery, follow your surgeon's plan; a series in the first weeks is common. For general puffiness, many people book as needed. Series of 3, 6 or 10 sessions lower the per-session price. See How Often Should You Get Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

Avoid lymphatic massage with an active infection, fever or cellulitis; with known or suspected blood clots (DVT); or with congestive heart failure or significant kidney disease. If you're in active cancer treatment, check with your medical team first.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage is performed by Amir at our Yaletown clinic. Clients come from across the city, including West Vancouver and Burnaby. The team speaks English and Farsi.