The recovery period after any major surgery can be taxing on the body. Rest is absolutely vital, but a lack of motion in our muscles and tissues can make it difficult for our lymphatic system to drain properly. However, certain massage techniques can stimulate tissue activity, draining excess fluid and shortening your recovery period without added pain.
Which Type of Massage is Recommended?
While many massages can promote relaxation during your recovery, a lymphatic massage can safely promote relaxation, reduce swelling, and hasten your healing process. The lymphatic system runs through your entire body ridding your body of waste, toxins, and excess fluids in the body. At the same time, it circulates white blood cells throughout the body which are responsible for tissue healing and protecting the immune system from infection.
The lymphatic massage focuses more on the patient’s skin and proper lymphatic drainage than traditional massages. As a result, it is a great addition to your post-surgical recovery—not only will it reduce your pain, but it can quicken your recovery and protect you from complications.
The Benefits of Post-Surgical Massage
Reduce Swelling and Pain: Manual lymphatic drainage focuses on draining excess cellular fluid out of the tissue. After surgery, these massages can help minimize swelling and avoid a build-up of fluid that causes excess swelling and pain.
Increase Oxygen and Blood Flow: The pain and swelling experienced after surgery are often caused by insufficient oxygen and blood supply. An enhanced supply provided by regular massaging can minimize these symptoms and accelerate your recovery.
Promote Healing and Immunity: An increased oxygen supply promotes proper tissue regeneration and the enhanced blood supply provided through massaging quickens your healing process overall. The focus on drainage reduces the risk of infection from fluid buildup and encourages healthy tissues.
Increase Mobility: After surgery, rest is vital, but a lack of motion can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Massages can help loosen the muscles and ease the process of getting back on your feet.
Decrease Scarring: Although scarring cannot be totally eliminated, tender supple muscles aid in properly healing the surrounding tissue. Thus, the scarring left behind in the aftermath is far more flexible and far less visible.
Additionally, excessive stress or anxiety can decrease your body’s blood flow, making your body slower to heal. However, massages release serotonin—a chemical that promotes well-being and reduces sensations of pain. This can combat any feelings of stress or anxiety experienced post-operation.
How Post-Surgical Massaging Works
Shortly after your surgery, a lymphatic massage may be encouraged to ease your recovery and encourage proper drainage. Depending on the treatment area, patient, and amount of excess fluid, you may need one massage early on, or a routine booking over a longer period of time. Generally, the more sessions you are able to sign up for, the better off your overall recovery will be.
Sessions themselves are relatively quick, usually only taking thirty minutes to an hour. Length is largely dependent on the amount of swelling and bruising in the treatment area. Lymphatic draining massages use wave-like strokes to open lymphatic channels and push out built-up fluids. Multiple sessions will reduce bruising and swelling and provide much-needed energy back to your muscles.
Where to Receive Your Lymphatic Massage
Patients located in Brandon or Tampa, FL trust Brandon Plastic Surgery with their post-surgical care. Whether you’ve had an operation with Dr. Sheinbaum and Dr. Gargya or had a cosmetic procedure through another office, we can help you create a personalized treatment plan to hasten your recovery. Our stellar staff is here for you every step of the way. For fast, easy recovery and quality treatment, schedule a consultation with Brandon Plastic Surgery.