South Edmonton Location
Post-surgery lymphatic drainage Edmonton
Manual lymphatic drainage after surgery is light, rhythmic work aimed at clearing swelling and bruising, delivered at our southeast Edmonton clinic by a Vodder-trained therapist for people recovering from knee and hip replacements, abdominal surgery and cosmetic procedures.
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How Post Surgery Lymphatic Drainage Edmonton May Support Recovery
Swelling and bruising after surgery are normal, but they slow recovery, limit movement and, in some procedures, affect the final result. Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) after surgery is a very light, rhythmic technique that encourages the lymphatic system to clear that fluid faster. At Vertex physiotherapy it is delivered by a therapist trained at the Dr. Vodder School, for people recovering from orthopaedic surgery such as knee and hip replacements, abdominal and gynaecological surgery, and cosmetic and plastic surgery including liposuction, tummy tuck and facial procedures. It is provided with your surgeon’s clearance and coordinated with any physiotherapy you are also having.
What to Expect During Post Surgery Lymphatic Drainage Edmonton
MLD is nothing like a firm massage. The therapist uses slow, light, stretching movements of the skin, starting away from the surgical site to clear the pathways and then working toward it, always away from incisions and never over them until they are healed. Sessions are thirty to sixty minutes, and you may feel little during them beyond a sense of lightness afterwards.
The number of sessions depends on the procedure and the swelling; two to three sessions a week in the first weeks is typical for cosmetic procedures, less for orthopaedic surgery where physiotherapy is doing most of the work.
Procedures That May Involve Post Surgery Lymphatic Drainage
For breast cancer surgery with lymph node removal, see lymphedema management, which covers longer-term care.
- Knee and hip replacement, ACL reconstruction and other orthopaedic surgery
- Abdominal, hernia and gynaecological surgery
- Liposuction, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and body contouring
- Breast surgery, including reduction, augmentation and reconstruction, with the surgeon’s clearance
- Facial procedures including rhinoplasty and facelift, once cleared
- Lymph node surgery, where the aim is also preventing lymphedema
When Can Post Surgery Lymphatic Drainage Begin?
Treatment usually starts once the surgeon is happy the wounds are stable, often within one to two weeks. Bring your discharge instructions; if your surgeon has a preferred protocol for MLD, the therapist follows it. Signs of infection, a suspected blood clot, or fever mean no treatment and a call to your surgeon.
If you are also having physiotherapy after orthopaedic surgery, the two are scheduled together and the therapists share notes with your permission.
Common Questions About Post Surgery Lymphatic Drainage
When can I start after surgery?
Usually once your surgeon confirms the wounds are stable, often one to two weeks after the procedure. Some cosmetic surgeons ask for it to start earlier; bring their instructions.
Does it hurt?
No. The technique is very light and works on the skin rather than the muscle. It is often the most comfortable part of early recovery.
How many sessions will I need?
For cosmetic procedures, six to ten sessions over three to four weeks is common. For orthopaedic surgery, a few sessions in the first weeks are usually enough alongside physiotherapy. The therapist will suggest a plan after the first visit.
Can it reduce fibrosis after liposuction?
Early drainage and gentle techniques can help fluid clear and tissues settle more evenly. Established firm areas are managed differently; discuss them with the therapist and your surgeon.
Is post-surgery lymphatic drainage covered by benefits?
It is billed as massage therapy and falls under that benefit on most extended health plans. Cosmetic surgery itself is not covered, but the massage benefit generally still applies to the treatment.
Who provides it?
Karthikeyan Diwakar, a Registered massage therapist trained in manual lymphatic drainage at the Dr. Vodder School International. Ask for Karthik when you book.
Book an appointment
Vertex Physiotherapy is at 6958 76 Ave NW #205, Edmonton, AB T6B 2R2. Call (825) 525-2852 or book online. Massage therapy receipts can be submitted to most extended health plans, and direct billing is available where your plan allows it.