MLD after lipedema surgery
Manual lymphatic drainage is a light, specific technique used after lipedema reduction to move fluid out of operated tissue and reduce swelling. Many practices build it into the post-operative protocol. It should be performed by a certified lymphedema therapist, not a general massage therapist.
What it does after surgery
Surgery leaves tissue that holds fluid. Drainage is used to move that fluid toward working lymphatic pathways, which reduces swelling and, in most practices' description, makes the early weeks more comfortable. It is the same technique used in conservative care, applied to a limb that has just been operated on, which is why who performs it matters.
Who is qualified
A certified lymphedema therapist. Post-surgical drainage is performed near incisions and on tissue that is healing, and certification is the line between a clinician trained for that and a spa treatment that sounds similar. Certified therapists by state.
When it starts, and how much
Timing and frequency come from the operating surgeon and vary widely. Some practices start within days, others wait. What is worth establishing before surgery is how many sessions are expected, whether the practice provides them, and what they cost if not, because a course of sessions is a real expense on top of the surgery fee.
Whether it is included
A minority of practices list aftercare or MLD among what the quoted price covers. Most do not. What each practice says its price includes, and the questions worth having ready before you call.
Common questions
Do you need MLD after lipedema surgery?
Many practices include manual lymphatic drainage in their post-operative protocol, and some include it in the quoted price. It is used to move fluid out of operated tissue and to reduce swelling. Whether it is required, and for how long, is set by the operating surgeon.
Who should perform MLD after surgery?
A certified lymphedema therapist. Post-surgical drainage on operated tissue is not the same as a spa massage, and the certification is what separates the two. Therapists holding LANA certification are listed by state on this site.
Is MLD included in the price of surgery?
Sometimes. A minority of practices list aftercare or MLD among what the quoted price includes, and most do not. It is one of the questions worth asking before booking, because a course of sessions is a real cost on top of the surgery.