What happens if you don't get lymphatic massages after tummy tuck?

Question

Is there any downside for not getting lymphatic massages? I am 4 months post op tummy tuck and have not massaged my incision. I am afraid my scar tissue will not soften up and will be permanent now

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

I do not have my patients do lymphatic massage at all.  All scars get harder and more purple for 4 months as the collagen is really revved up.  After 4 months, the soften and lighten in color.  This is the natural evolution of a scar.

Mark E. Freeman, MD · Answer

We tell our patients that massage will likely encourage the scar tissue to break down faster than doing nothing.  However 1-2 years after surgery it would be impossible to tell who did massage and who didn't.  So in my opinion, while it may speed things up, it shouldnt affect your final result.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, some of my patients will have massage after TT, but the majority do not.  I can not say that I have noticed a difference in long-term outcomes in my own practice.

Vasdev Rai, MD · Answer

Lymphatic massage is not required after tummy tuck.  You did not miss out on anything.  It had no impact on scar or the final result.

What happens if you don't get lymphatic massages after tummy tuck?

Answers (4)

Answer: Lymphatic massage is not a necessity at all

Answer: Lymphatic massage is not a necessity at all

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Everything you need to know about Lymphatic Massage

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What happens if you don't get lymphatic massages after tummy tuck?

Answers (4)

Answer: Lymphatic massage is not a necessity at all

Answer: Lymphatic massage is not a necessity at all

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lymphatic Massage

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.