When can I have lymphatic massages after a tummy tuck with lipo of the flanks?

Question

My doctor recommended them and gave me places. How soon can i start them post-op? I'm 9 days out but i havent started them because im scared of the pain... What's the window (in weeks) between which i can MOST benefit from them?

Luke J. Curtsinger, MD · Answer

You may start lymphatic massage. I generally advise patients to wait approximately one week after tummy tuck before beginning lymphatic massage. Generally lymphatic massage is very gentle and is not painful. It is helpful but it is not essential.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. My advice is to follow your doctor recommendations and start as soon as possible.Respectfully, Dr. Emmanuel Mallol.-

Jeffrey D. Wagner, MD · Answer

I tell my patients that they may start massaging around a week or so postoperatively, or later if they are still uncomfortable or having a wound healing complication.  It seems to be helpful, but not essential to tummy tuck recovery.  Ask your doctor for their specific recommendation.

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Congratulations on your recent surgery.  You can start lymphatic drainage now as long as your surgeon has approved.  Lymphatic drainage is typically not painful and will help with your swelling.

Anh Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

You can start doing them now and most of my patients have found it beneficial to their recovery process.  It can help to decrease the swelling and of course getting a massage is a nice way to relax too!

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Your surgeon is the best person to answer this question. If he/she said it was ok to start then do so. The masages may reduce your pain.

When can I have lymphatic massages after a tummy tuck with lipo of the flanks?

Answers (6)

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