Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, rhythmic massage technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, helping the body naturally remove excess fluid, waste products, and supporting overall health and wellbeing.
Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage
- Deep relaxation by calming and regulating the nervous system, helping reduce stress and promote a sense of wellbeing.
- Reducing swelling and fluid retention, including puffiness in the face, legs, ankles and abdomen.
- Reducing bloating and abdominal discomfort by encouraging healthy lymphatic flow and supporting digestive comfort, leaving many clients feeling lighter and less puffy.
- Relieving feelings of heaviness or sluggishness, leaving the body feeling lighter and more energised.
- Supporting recovery from fatigue by promoting circulation and the body's natural healing processes.
- Supporting postpartum recovery (with medical clearance where appropriate) by helping reduce swelling and encourage gentle recovery after childbirth.
- Supporting the immune system through healthy lymphatic circulation.
- Improving circulation of lymphatic fluid to assist the body's natural removal of excess fluid and metabolic waste.
- Promoting healthier-looking skin by reducing puffiness and improving circulation.
- Supporting travel before and after flying by helping reduce fluid retention, swollen ankles and feelings of heaviness.
Pricing
- 60 minutes — £60 — for a medium targeted area
- 90 minutes — £85 — covers the whole front of the body only
We recommend 6 or more weekly sessions for optimal results.
Pre- & Post-Surgical Support
Manual Lymphatic Drainage can be a valuable part of the recovery process following surgery by helping to reduce swelling, improve comfort and support the body's natural healing mechanisms. MLD may help to:
- Reduce swelling (oedema) and fluid build-up.
- Minimise bruising by supporting the body's natural healing process.
- Encourage healthy lymphatic drainage following trauma to the tissues.
- Reduce feelings of tightness, pressure and discomfort.
- Support scar healing when appropriate and with your surgeon's guidance.
- Promote a smoother, more comfortable recovery and enhance overall wellbeing.
MLD is often beneficial following procedures such as liposuction, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), breast surgery, facelifts, body contouring procedures, joint replacements and other operations where swelling is expected.
Post-Surgical Booking Policy
As I am not clinically trained in specialist post-operative rehabilitation, I am only able to offer post-surgical MLD treatments from 4 weeks after your surgery, provided your incisions have fully healed, there are no signs of infection or other complications, and you have been given approval by your surgeon or healthcare professional if required.
Every recovery is unique, and your treatment will be tailored to your individual stage of healing. If you are unsure whether you are ready for treatment, please contact me before booking so we can discuss your suitability.
Preparing for Your Treatment
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and 24 hours after your appointment.
- Avoid heavy meals for 24 hours before and after treatment where possible; choose lighter, nourishing foods instead.
- Drink plenty of water before and after your appointment to support healthy lymphatic function.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment for comfort and easier recovery afterwards.
- Avoid strenuous exercise immediately after treatment where possible and allow your body time to rest.
- Empty your bladder before your appointment, as treatment may increase the need to urinate.
- If you are feeling unwell, have a fever or an active infection, please contact me before your appointment as treatment may need to be postponed.
After Your Treatment
- Increased urination as your body processes excess fluid.
- Feeling deeply relaxed or sleepy.
- Increased thirst — continue drinking water throughout the day.
- A feeling of lightness and reduced swelling.
- Occasionally mild fatigue as your body recovers.
These responses are normal and usually settle within 24–48 hours.
Important Information
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle, supportive therapy designed to encourage healthy lymphatic function. While many clients experience improvements in swelling, relaxation and overall wellbeing, results vary between individuals. MLD is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure medical conditions and should not replace advice or treatment from your GP or healthcare professional.
Please do not book a post-operative MLD appointment if you are less than 4 weeks post-surgery, have open wounds, an active infection, unexplained swelling, a fever, or have not yet been cleared by your surgeon where appropriate. Please contact us first if you are unsure.
Other Massage Therapy treatments
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