Post-Op Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Award-Winning | UK’s Only CPD-Accredited Seroma Training Centre | Internationally
Trained Recovery Specialists
What Is Post-Op Recovery Massage and Why Do I Need It?
Post-operative lymphatic drainage (MLD) is only one part of effective post-surgery care. At Alaia Aesthetics, we understand that true recovery requires a comprehensive and
medically-informed combination of techniques — not just massage.
Our treatment approach includes:
✓ Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
✓ Fibrosis prevention and reduction techniques
✓ Seroma management (competent, insured providers)
✓ Infrared and red light therapy
✓ Ultrasound therapy
✓ Radio frequency (where safe)
✓ Compression garment guidance (Available in clinic)
✓Recovery planning and monitoring
Just Had Surgery — How Many Massages Do I Need Each Week?
General guideline individual treatment plans may vary based on healing, swelling, seroma, fibrosis, and surgeon recommendations.
Recovery Phase
Liposuction only
Lipo + BBL
Tummy Tuck
Multiple Procedures
Seroma Present
Week 1-2
2-3 Sessions per week
3
3-4
4
Add 1 additional session
Week 3-4
2 Sessions per week
2-3
3
3
Add 1 additional session
Week 4-6
1-2 Sessions per week
2
2-3
2-3
Based on fluid review
Week 6-8
1 Session (Maintenance)
1-2 (Maintenance)
1-2 (Maintenance)
2 If swelling/fibrosis present
By clinical assessment only
I have a Seroma what should I do?
A seroma is a pocket of fluid that forms under the skin after surgery. If left untreated, it can harden into fibrosis or affect surgical results. At Alaia Aesthetics, we are one of the few competent and insured seroma care providers.
Seroma guidance:
✓ Add one extra session per week during Weeks 1–4
✓ Use ultrasound therapy for fluid softening and breakdown
✓ Monitor weekly until fluid resolves
✓ Referral for aspiration when clinically required
When Will I See Results From Post-Op Massage?
Improvements such as reduced pressure and increased comfort can be felt from the first session. Visible improvements including softer tissue and contour definition typically develop between three to seven sessions.
Progress indicators:
✓ Week 1–2: Swelling reduction, lighter feeling
✓ Week 3–4: Tissue softening, smoother contour
✓ Week 4–6: Fibrosis reduction, shape refinement
✓ Week 6–8: Maintenance and long-term shaping
Why Do I Need More Than Just Lymphatic Drainage?
Effective post-op recovery requires more than MLD alone. At Alaia Aesthetics, we combine advanced clinically-informed modalities for optimal results depending on the recovery stage.
Concern
Recommended Approach
Swelling/Fluid
Manual lymphatic drainage
Seroma
Fluid management + Ultrasound
Fibrosis
Ultrasound + RF therapy
Contour Refinement
RF, drainage, garment guidance
Long-term healing
Monthly review and shaping support
