When is the right time to do lymphatic drainage massages after Vaser liposuction?

Question

I’m about 10 days post op and still swollen on my pubic area and above belly button. My doctor said no massages

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Swelling post-lipo can persist for months, so it's important to be on the right after care protocols. In addition to compression, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and radiofrequency treatments, lymphatic massage is highly effective in the prevention of fluid buildup, scar tissue, inflammation, and infections. Lymphatic massage also decreases the chance of irregularities, lumps or bumps; accelerates healing and minimizes downtime; and, following a liposculpture procedure, can help further contour the abdominals.I recommend that my liposculpture patients receive lymphatic massage treatments every day for a week following their procedure; twice per week for the following month; and then once per week until healing is complete.I recommend following up with your physician (or with a hi-definition physique expert) about best after care practices. Best, Dr. Emer.

Calvin Jung, MD · Answer

Massages are a source of contention in post op care.  Those who recommend it will swear by it and recommend patient start the same day or day after.  Those who dont believe it in it and do not think it will help the overall outcome will say not to do them.I find in my practice that my patients feel better and have better mobility after early intervention massages.  I was a naysayer at first as well but now recommend everyone complete a minimum of 10 for large areas such as the abdomen and 5 for small areas like the chin.

Oscar A. Aguirre, MD, FPMRS · Answer

Hello Magdausa,Thanks for your great question. First of all, there is no right or wrong answer to this question, but mainly a variation in practice. I recommend lymphatic drainage soon after surgery, in fact it's part of our postoperative recovery recommendations. The first three lymphatic treatments are included as part of our surgical proposal which begin the day following surgery. I feel it provides for better healing and comfort for our patients. Best of luck,Oscar A. Aguirre, MDUrogynecologist & Cosmetic Surgeon

Randy Dean, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
There is no universal standard for timing of massage. If started too early, there is the risk of bleeding. If started too late, fibrosis may limit the result. Some surgeons begin massage on day one, some after the bleeding risk subsides at 3-4 weeks, and some do not employ massage at all.
In our experience, we employ lymphatic massage in patients who appear to be exhibiting excessive swelling in the early postoperative period, beginning at 4 weeks after surgery. 
Best wishes...

Kristine Brecht, MD (license suspended) · Answer

Dear Fairfield,Great question.Swelling post Liposuction starts to go down about two weeks after surgery, with main healing over the first 6-8weeks.Daily exercise and good smooth compression are the best treatments.If after a few months there are still some firm areas, then massage is fine.Lymphatic massage earlier doesn’t really accelerate the healing vs exercise and compression, unless you are doing high definition.Some surgeons start massage at day one, others don’t recommend it at all.Best. Dr Brecht Seattle, Wa

When is the right time to do lymphatic drainage massages after Vaser liposuction?

Answers (5)

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