Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Cosmetic Surgery Recovery
Cosmetic surgery is a big decision. It is one you likely made after careful planning, emotional investment, and financial commitment. Whether you're preparing for a tummy tuck, liposuction, breast augmentation, or another body contouring procedure, what happens after surgery can be just as important as the surgery itself.
At our Edmonton clinic, we offer Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) using the Vodder method — a medically-informed manual technique designed to support your body’s healing process and optimize your surgical results.
What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a light, rhythmic massage technique that helps move excess fluid through your lymphatic system, which can become disrupted after surgery. When used pre- and post-operatively, MLD can:
Reduce swelling and bruising
Promote healthy scar tissue formation
Shorten recovery times
Ease pain and discomfort
Support better aesthetic results
Cosmetic surgery creates excess fluid and slows down the body’s natural lymph flow. MLD helps restore balance, encourages circulation, and relieves lymphatic congestion, which can support you feeling better, sooner.
Why Choose the Dr. Vodder Method?
Not all “lymphatic massage” is created equal. At our clinic, we specialize in the original Dr. Vodder method of MLD — a respected technique developed in Europe (France, Germany, Austria) and widely used in European medical clinics today.
This method is:
Scientifically supported and backed by decades of clinical use
Non-invasive, gentle, and pain-free
Focused on the physiological function of the lymphatic system
Practiced with the highest standards of professional training
Carissa is certified in Level 2 Dr. Vodder MLD and Advanced Post-Surgical Applications, with a foundation of training in anatomy and massage therapy as a Registered Massage Therapist with the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada.
When Should I Get MLD for Surgery?
Every client is different but for the best results, we generally recommend:
Pre-surgical MLD: Starting about 48 hours before your procedure, ideally with 2–3 sessions spaced about 12 hours apart leading up to the surgery time.
Post-surgical MLD: Starting after your surgeon clears you (often within 7-10 days), continuing with 2–3 sessions per week for 3–4 weeks or until sufficient results are achieved.
Please contact us for a free consultation to confirm your custom plan.
Benefits of Pre & Post-Surgical MLD Massage
Manual lymphatic drainage can be a wonderful treatment to improve post-operative outcomes for cosmetic surgeries. Some of the benefits may include:
Reduce pain and discomfort
Manually decrease swelling
Help prevent complications like fibrosis
Encourage smoother scar healing
Support a more refined aesthetic result
Frequently Asked Questions
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MLD can be helpful after many surgeries, including C-sections, joint replacements, and other orthopedic procedures. However, not all surgical clients are candidates for MLD, so please refer to the list of contraindications below or contact us if you have questions about whether this treatment is right for you.
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Yes. MLD is not recommended for clients with:
Active cancer
Active infections
Acute inflammation
Cardiac insufficiency
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or history of blood clots
We also do not treat lymphedema (or undiagnosed swelling) at this time, as it requires a specialized training. Please contact us for a referral.
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Not at all. Post-surgical MLD is still beneficial. We often recommend 2–3 sessions per week for the first 3 to 4 weeks post-op to support a smoother recovery.
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We work with clients who’ve had:
Liposuction
Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)
Brazilian butt lift (BBL)
Breast augmentation or reduction
C-section
Facial Procedures
Hair transplant
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Some surgeons allow removal of compression garments during MLD treatments. Always consult your surgeon for guidance before your first session.
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Carissa is a Registered Massage Therapist certified in:
Level 2 of the Dr. Vodder MLD Method
Advanced Level MLD for Pre & Post-Surgical Care
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Yes. Silicone tape can be an option for minimizing surgical scars. When worn for 3–6 months, it can help reduce scar discoloration and thickening. We now offer silicone tape rolls at our clinic. Your therapist and surgeon will guide you on how and when to use them.
Book a Post-Surgical MLD Massage in Edmonton
You’ve made a big choice to invest in your body, and it deserves the best care. If you're preparing for surgery or already on the road to recovery, Manual Lymphatic Drainage can help you heal faster, feel better, and get the results you want.
We are located at the Roots on Whyte Buildling in Old Strathcona - serving clients in Edmonton across the Scona, Southeast, Whitemud, Millwoods, Meadows, Central Edmonton District, and all surrounding areas.
Book your appointment or contact us to ask about pre- and post-surgical care packages.