Post Op Q & A
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Post-op lymphatic massage is a specialized technique that helps reduce swelling and improve lymphatic circulation after surgery, promoting faster recovery.
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The number of sessions varies depending on the individual, the type of surgery, and the body’s response. In most cases, doctors recommend anywhere from 12-24 sessions. Typically, a series of sessions spaced over a few months is recommended.
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Idealy we recommend getting at least 3-4 sessions before your surgery. But if that cannot be done then most doctors recommend you start 4-7 days after surgery. They will usually recommend you do 2-3 sessions a week for the first month post op then 1-2 sessions a week there after for the next two months.
If you stay at a recovery house after your surgery they will perform post op lymphatic drainage massages. Those are different then post op lymphatic massages. The technician or nurse is pushing fluid our of the incision site. In the state of Washington massage therapist are not allowed to push fluid out of the incision sites only doctors, nurses, or wound care specialist are permitted and licensed to do so.
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Sessions typically last between 60 to 90 minutes depending on what you had done. We here at Sacred self-care co. have developed a protocol with the help of several doctors that gives our clients the best results possible. If you had only one area done such as arms, face, or chin we will do a 60 minute session. If you had more than one area done or the full mommy makeover we typically do a 90 minute session. In our sessions we include red light therapy, the use of therapeutic tools, and kineso taping when the time is right.
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NO, they should NOT be painful. The massage should be gentle and soothing, focusing on stimulating lymphatic flow without causing discomfort. Communication with your therapist is key to adjusting pressure as needed.
There may be some slight discomfort from the numbness you may be feeling and from just having surgery but you should not be feeling any other pain from the lymphatic massage.
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Your therapist may recommend specific exercises, self-massage techniques, and wearing compression garments to support the effects of the massage between sessions.
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Results can vary, but many clients experience reduced swelling and improved comfort after the first few sessions. Consistency with the recommended sessions enhances overall benefits.
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A seroma is a build of fluid under the surface of your skin, which can develop after surgery. Sometimes they can naturally reabsorb back into the body in a few weeks/ months, but sometimes they may need to be drained by a doctor.
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Fibrosis is a thickening or scarring of the tissue which is a natural healing process that occurs in response to tissue damage. It can be treated through variouse methods such as massage and the use of spesific tools used to help break up the fibrotic tissue.
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While it doesn’t directly eliminate scar tissue, it can aid in minimizing swelling and promoting tissue healing, which may contribute to a more favorable scar outcome.