Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Light, directional manual massage that moves fluid towards the lymph nodes.

What it treats

Puffiness and fluid retention
Heaviness in the legs
Swelling after cosmetic surgery, once cleared
Recovery between body treatments

How it works

The lymphatic system has no pump of its own and relies on movement and muscle action to shift fluid. The technique uses very light, slow, directional strokes towards the nodes in the neck, armpit and groin, in a set sequence. The pressure is much lighter than a sports or deep tissue massage, and heavier pressure works against it rather than better.

Typical course

Standalone as needed, or weekly for four to six weeks after surgery or a body course.

Who it is not suitable for

Not carried out during an active infection or fever, with untreated congestive heart failure, with a current deep vein thrombosis, or over an undiagnosed lump. Anyone with a known lymphoedema diagnosis should be under a specialist lymphoedema service.

Every treatment here is assessed at consultation first. This list covers the common reasons we would not proceed, and it is not exhaustive. Bring your medication list and tell us about anything you are being treated for.

Questions people ask

Does it detox the body?

No. Your liver and kidneys do that. What it genuinely does is move interstitial fluid, which is why it helps with puffiness and post surgical swelling. We will not tell you it does more than that.

Should it hurt?

No. If it hurts, the pressure is wrong for this technique. The strokes should feel almost too light to be doing anything.

When can I have it after surgery?

Usually from around two weeks, but the date comes from your surgeon rather than from us. Bring their clearance and we will work to it.

Related treatments

All Body & Fat

Looking for something else?

Or just ask

If it is not on the menu, or you are not sure what to call it, say so in your own words and the team will answer. Ask about this treatment.