The timing of Lymphatic massage after Tummy Tuck surgery is also an individualized decision. It is typically recommended that patients wait at least 2-3 weeks before starting massage therapy, to allow time for the incision to heal. However, the timing may be adjusted based on the patient’s individual healing process.
In this post, we’ll cover when to start lymphatic massage after tummy tuck and how many lymphatic massages after tummy tuck.
Lymphatic Massage After Tummy Tuck Video
First, let’s look at the lymphatic system and what it does to better understand how the massage works. The lymphatic system is the system of tissues, vessels, and organs that work in conjunction to maintain fluid levels in our body, support immune function, and keep blood circulating. The system carries lymph, a clear fluid that contains proteins, waste, fat cells, and metabolized cells through the body which is filtered through the lymph nodes. Waste is removed from the body as clean lymph circulates back through. When the lymphatic system isn’t moving lymph through the body properly, excess fluid in the body builds up, causing edema and creating a puffy, uncomfortable look and feel.
Lymphatic drainage massage was developed to treat lymphedema, a condition of accumulated fluid within the body that often develops after removing lymph nodes. A trained massage therapist can manually massage the body in a way to push lymph through the body, breaking up areas of swelling and reducing excess fluid in the body.
When To Start Lymphatic Massage After Tummy Tuck
The lymphatic system is responsible for eliminating waste fluids that cause inflammation and discomfort. Some patients may have trouble recovering from surgery due to the side effects of swelling and pain. These effects may leave them exhausted and confused. Did you know there is a medical procedure that can help you recover from surgery with less discomfort and swelling?
How does one describe lymphatic massage?
Manual lymphatic drainage, also called lymphatic massage, is a gentle form of manipulation targeted at reducing swelling after surgery. Originally developed for the treatment of lymphedema, the swelling of tissues due to fluid accumulation, lymphatic massage entails a lymphatic therapist gently massaging affected areas to increase the circulation of lymph fluids. Lymphatic massage is not required after surgery, but it is highly recommended because it aids in recovery.
What makes lymphatic massage so crucial?
You can avoid getting sick and keep your body functioning normally thanks to the lymphatic system, which is a part of the immune system. White blood cells and other immune system cells are manufactured and released by the lymphatic system to search for and destroy foreign pathogens like viruses and bacteria. Lymphatic drainage was developed to aid in the maintenance of normal fluid levels, as well as to boost immunity and blood flow.
Why is lymphatic massage recommended after plastic surgery?
Tummy tucks, Brazilian butt lifts (BBLs), and liposuction are all examples of more extensive cosmetic procedures that require a longer recovery time due to the extent of the affected area(s). Many people report more pain and swelling during recovery from these procedures than from less invasive ones. However, if you adhere to the post-operative care instructions provided by your plastic surgeon, you will enjoy the remarkable, truly life-changing results of these complex procedures. Plastic surgeons who truly care about their patients will recommend any and all means necessary to reduce their patients’ pain and swelling after surgery, even if it means more swelling in the short term. When thinking of ways to promote a quick and healthy recovery, aesthetic providers often turn to lymphatic massage.
How long does it take to get back into normal life after having a tummy tuck?
Dr. Liland sees many patients who are self-conscious about their appearance because of excess skin in the abdominal region. People who have lost a lot of weight through diet and exercise but still have a lot of excess skin around their bellies are good candidates for a tummy tuck. After having a baby, many women seek out Dr. Liland for a tummy tuck in an effort to get their pre-pregnancy bodies back. It’s a popular option for moms getting makeovers. The tummy tuck is the most popular component of the mommy makeover, despite the fact that the makeover can include just about any rejuvenating procedure. Though the abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is not a weight loss procedure, it does wonders for removing excess skin and revealing the contour of your new stomach after significant weight loss or pregnancy. The benefits of a tummy tuck far outweigh the inconvenience of having to take time off work, and excellent surgeons know this, so they do everything they can to make the healing process as quick and painless as possible.
Downtime after a tummy tuck consists of resting for the first few days after the procedure, and then continuing to rest for the next two to three weeks. The majority of the improvement in pain, bruising, and swelling will occur during this time of recuperation. Still, for 7-10 weeks after the procedure, you shouldn’t engage in strenuous activities, as doing so can impede the healing process of your scars and lead to a need for revision. Some specialists may suggest gentler forms of exercise to speed recovery.
Tummy tucks are more complex cosmetic procedures than liposuction because they involve the removal of skin as well as the tightening of abdominal muscles. The benefits are worthwhile if performed by a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Liland. After surgery, like tummy tucks, Dr. Liland works with each patient to create individualized plans. These aid in facilitating the quickest and least painful recuperation possible. Dr. Liland will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions following your tummy tuck, including the medications to take, the foods to eat and avoid, the skin ointments to apply to the incisions, and the times at which you can begin engaging in various activities again. Dr. Liland may suggest you work with a lymphatic massage therapist to manage your pain, swelling, and bruises after a more extensive tummy tuck.
How do tummy tuck scars look like?
Scarring from a tummy tuck most commonly appears in the lower abdomen. Dr. Liland places incisions for tummy tucks as discreetly as possible, preferably in places that will be concealed by clothing. Because of the variety of tummy tuck procedures, the location of your incision will be tailored to your specific procedure. The scar from a tummy tuck is usually faint and can be pink or lighter in color than the surrounding skin. After your surgery, Dr. Liland will provide you with special bandages and glue to use on your incision at home.
Is it recommended to get a lymphatic massage after having a tummy tuck?
Lymphatic massage can help you heal from scarring by reducing swelling and halting the formation of excess scar tissue. If you’ve recently had cosmetic surgery, you should expect some swelling as your body heals. The goal of lymphatic massage is to ensure the swelling is draining properly and does not contain any harmful fluids that could hinder the body’s natural healing process.
Where can I locate a skilled professional to provide lymphatic massage?
If your plastic surgeon determines that lymphatic drainage is necessary for your recovery, they will likely refer you to a lymphatic massage therapist with whom they have established working relationships. Lymphatic drainage experts are often on staff at plastic surgery clinics. If your tummy tuck doctor isn’t familiar with lymphatic massage, you should conduct the same kind of in-depth research and evaluation that you did for your surgeon to find a local lymphatic specialist. Check online reviews, follow them on social media if they have it, see if they have experience with tummy tuck patients and their recovery, etc.
How Many Lymphatic Massages After Tummy Tuck
We typically advise anywhere from 5-12 sessions, though this varies by area, procedure, and the individual’s unique healing process.
When it comes to medical procedures, the number of sessions recommended for optimal results can vary depending on several factors. In general, we typically advise anywhere from 5-12 sessions, though this can vary based on the specific area being treated, the type of procedure being performed, and the individual’s unique healing process. For example, when it comes to laser hair removal, most patients will require anywhere from 6-8 sessions to achieve the desired results. This is because hair grows in cycles, and multiple sessions are needed to target hair in all stages of growth.
On the other hand, treatments like chemical peels or microdermabrasion may only require 3-6 sessions for optimal results, as these procedures work to improve the skin’s texture and appearance over time.It’s important to note that the number of sessions recommended is not set in stone and may need to be adjusted based on how the individual responds to treatment. Some patients may see results after just a few sessions, while others may require additional sessions to achieve their desired outcome.Factors such as the individual’s skin type, age, and overall health can also play a role in determining the number of sessions needed.
For example, patients with darker skin tones may require more sessions for laser treatments, as the laser may need to be adjusted to avoid damaging the skin. Ultimately, the goal of any medical procedure is to achieve the best possible results while minimizing any potential risks or side effects. By working closely with your healthcare provider and following their recommendations for the number of sessions needed, you can ensure that you achieve the best possible outcome from your treatment.