What is MLD?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialized massage technique that involves light pressure and gentle, rhythmic skin-stretching movements. These movements stimulate the lymphatic vessels located just beneath the skin, encouraging the natural flow of lymphatic fluid throughout the body.

This technique supports the lymphatic system—a key component of the immune system—which is responsible for transporting waste, toxins, and excess fluid away from tissues and back toward the cardiovascular system.

Why the Lymphatic System Slows Down

Lymphatic flow can become sluggish or impaired due to a variety of internal and external factors, including:

• Autoimmune disorders
• Environmental influences (e.g., toxins, pollutants)
• Lifestyle factors (e.g., lack of exercise, poor diet)
• Physical trauma or injuries

When the lymphatic system is underperforming, it can lead to fluid retention, tissue swelling (edema), and a build-up of cellular waste. MLD is designed to help restore proper lymphatic circulation and support detoxification and immune function.

Conditions Supported by MLD

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is indicated for a range of clinical and wellness-related concerns. It is often integrated into care plans to help reduce swelling, support immune function, and encourage efficient fluid movement throughout the body. Common indications include:

Pre- & Post-Surgical Recovery
MLD is highly effective before and after surgical procedures to help minimize swelling, reduce bruising, and support tissue healing. It is commonly used after cosmetic, orthopedic, and lymph node surgeries.

Lymphedema
Whether primary (present from birth) or secondary (commonly resulting from cancer treatments, lymph node removal, or trauma), MLD helps manage fluid accumulation and reduce limb swelling associated with this chronic condition.

Lipedema
This chronic fat disorder primarily affects women and is characterized by disproportionate fat accumulation, often in the legs and arms. MLD can improve lymphatic drainage and help relieve associated pain and swelling.

Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia, MS, etc., may benefit from gentle lymphatic stimulation to support detoxification, reduce inflammation, and improve systemic circulation

General Wellness & Preventive Care
For those without underlying medical conditions, MLD can promote detoxification, reduce fluid retention, support circulation, alleviate bloating, constipation and enhance the body’s overall immune function.

Your Safety is Our Priority

Before beginning any Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) session, it is critical to inform your therapist of any existing medical conditions, past diagnoses, or current treatments. This allows your therapist to determine whether MLD is appropriate for you and to identify any potential contraindications.

When MLD Should Not Be Performed

While MLD is a gentle and non-invasive therapy, there are specific absolute contraindications that make it unsafe. MLD should not be performed if the client has any of the following:

• Acute congestive heart failure
• Acute renal (kidney) failure
• Active blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
• Active infection (systemic or localized)
• Active internal or external bleeding
• Undiagnosed or untreated cancer

These conditions pose serious health risks and require immediate medical attention. If any of these apply, MLD is not recommended.

Before and After Your Session

To ensure you get the most out of your Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) treatment, please follow these evidence-based guidelines before and after your session:

• Begin hydrating and adopt a light, clean diet* at least 24 hours prior to your appointment
• Avoid eating a full meal within 4 hours of your session
• Engage in light movement, such as walking, before and after your treatment to stimulate circulation
• Follow your recommended treatment plan and any at-home care instructions provided
• Wear compression garments if prescribed or recommended by your healthcare provider or therapist
• Continue to hydrate after the session to support detoxification and help prevent dehydration-related symptoms such as headaches or migraines

*A clean diet typically emphasizes whole foods, reduced sodium, and minimal processed or inflammatory ingredients. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate the body and interfere with lymphatic function and detoxification.

Adhering to these guidelines not only enhances the immediate effectiveness of your MLD treatment but also supports your body’s ongoing ability to regulate fluid balance, eliminate waste, and maintain immune function.

 

Note: If you’re unsure about any aspect of your preparation or health history, please consult your healthcare provider and inform your therapist prior to your appointment.

Pre-Surgical Preparation

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) can be an excellent tool to prepare the body for surgery by stimulating lymph flow, reducing fluid buildup, and promoting tissue health. Pre-operative MLD may enhance circulation, reduce inflammation, and contribute to more comfortable and efficient post-surgical healing.

We recommend scheduling your MLD sessions 1–2 weeks prior to surgery:

• Upper or Lower Body Procedures
  • 2 to 3 sessions of 60 minutes (full-body focus)
• Facial Procedures
  • 1 to 2 sessions of 45 minutes (face and neck focus)

These sessions help prepare your body’s internal systems for the stress of surgery and create an optimal healing environment.

 

Important Note:
MLD is not recommended for patients with active or untreated cancer, unless specifically cleared by a medical provider. If you have a history of cancer or are currently undergoing treatment, please consult your physician before scheduling.

Post-Surgical Recovery Support

At Feeling Great, our therapists are highly experienced in supporting recovery from a wide range of cosmetic, reconstructive, and orthopedic procedures. We understand that surgery affects not only the treated area but also the surrounding tissues, lymphatic flow, and overall function. That’s why our post-operative care is customized to your body, your procedure, and your pace of healing.

Procedures We Commonly Support Include:

• Liposuction – abdomen, torso (360), arms, thighs, chin
• Abdominoplasty – mini tummy tuck, full tummy tuck (360), with or without muscle repair
• Fat Transfer – glutes (BBL), hips, chest/breast, face
• Breast Procedures – augmentation, reduction, lift, explant
• Rhinoplasty & Sinus Surgery
• Facelift & Facial rejuvenation surgeries
• Mastectomy & DIEP Flap Reconstruction
• Orthopedic Procedures – knee surgery, hip replacement, back/spinal surgery
• Gynecological Procedures – hysterectomy, cesarean delivery (C-section)
• Minimally Invasive Surgeries

Customized Post-Surgical Treatment Plans

Each body heals differently—recovery depends on the procedure, the level of tissue trauma, and individual healing capacity. Our treatment plans are always adapted to your body’s response, but we often recommend the following as a general guideline:

1. Phase 1 – Initial Recovery:
   • 3 sessions per week for the first 2 weeks to reduce inflammation and manage fluid retention
2. Phase 2 – Stabilization:
   • 2 sessions per week for 2–3 weeks to address early fibrosis and support optimal tissue healing
3. Phase 3 – Maintenance:
   • 1 session per week for 3 weeks, tapering to 1 session per month for ongoing support

Our Treatment Goals Include:

• Minimized swelling and fluid retention
• Reduced fibrosis and scar tissue formation
• Improved range of motion and tissue mobility
• Faster return to comfort, confidence, and activity

Whether you’re recovering from an elective procedure or a medically necessary one, we’re here to support you through every phase—professionally, compassionately, and effectively.

Lymphedema & Lipedema Care

At Feeling Great, our therapists are Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapists (CMLDT) trained in the Vodder technique from Klose Training Lymphedema Certification, a clinically recognized method for safe and effective lymphatic support. Our team is led by a Medical Massage Specialist with over 30 years of experience in therapeutic bodywork, advanced expertise in injury rehabilitation and lymphatic drainage.

Please note: Our practice provides Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) only. We do not provide compression therapy or prescribe compression garments, but are happy to refer you to qualified medical professionals or fitters when appropriate. We see clients up to Stage 3.

 

Understanding Lymphedema & Lipedema

Lymphedema is a chronic condition caused by damage or dysfunction of the lymphatic system, leading to fluid retention and swelling—commonly seen after lymph node removal or cancer treatment (secondary), or due to genetic factors (primary).
Lipedema is a chronic, progressive fat disorder that primarily affects women and is often misdiagnosed or overlooked. It is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fat—most commonly in the hips, thighs, buttocks, and arms—that is disproportionate to the rest of the body and resistant to diet and exercise.

Unlike general weight gain, the fat associated with Lipedema is often painful, tender to the touch, and may bruise easily. As the condition advances, it can impair lymphatic flow and lead to secondary Lymphedema (called Lipo-Lymphedema), resulting in additional swelling and fluid retention.

Though not curable, both conditions can be managed through a combination of:

• Consistent Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
• Compression therapy (as recommended by a healthcare provider)
• Anti-inflammatory nutrition and hydration
• Gentle movement and exercise

Our goal is to help clients reduce swelling, minimize fibrosis, and improve tissue mobility—ultimately reaching a point where symptoms are stable and manageable with maintenance sessions.

 

Recommended Treatment Plan

1. Initial Phase – Reduction & Regulation:
   • 3 sessions per week for the first 2 weeks, depending on severity
   Focus: decreasing swelling, softening fibrotic tissue, restoring fluid movement
2. Stabilization Phase:
   • 2 sessions per week for 2–3 weeks
   Focus: maintaining progress, support optimal tissue healing, improving comfort and mobility
3. Maintenance Phase:
   • 1 session per week, or bi-weekly, based on individual response and wellness goals
   Focus: preventing fluid build-up, minimizing flare-ups, and supporting long-term wellness

 

Note: Each client’s plan will be tailored based on condition stage, medical history, and how their body responds to therapy.

 

Recommended Diet for Lymphedema & Lipedema Management

Nutrition plays a critical role in reducing inflammation, minimizing fluid retention, and supporting lymphatic health. The following dietary principles are commonly recommended for individuals managing Lymphedema and Lipedema:

Anti-Inflammatory Focus

Reducing systemic inflammation is key to managing both conditions.
Include:

• Colorful vegetables and leafy greens (rich in antioxidants)
• Berries, citrus, and low-glycemic fruits
• Cold-water fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel) for omega-3 fatty acids
• Turmeric, ginger, and other anti-inflammatory herbs

Low-Sodium Intake

Excess sodium promotes fluid retention and swelling.

• Avoid processed foods, canned soups, salty snacks, and deli meats
• Opt for fresh, whole ingredients
• Use herbs, lemon, or vinegar for flavor instead of salt

Low-Glycemic, Whole-Food Carbohydrates

Maintain stable blood sugar to avoid inflammatory spikes.
Choose:

• Quinoa, lentils, brown rice, steel-cut oats
• Avoid: refined flours, white bread, pastries, and sugary drinks

Healthy Fats

Support cell repair and hormone balance.

• Use olive oil, avocado, flaxseeds, chia seeds, nuts (in moderation)
• Avoid trans fats and seed oils (e.g., corn, soybean oil)

Hydration

Adequate water intake supports lymph flow and detoxification.

• Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces daily
• Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can cause dehydration

Balanced Protein Intake

Protein is essential for tissue repair and lymphatic function.

• Include lean sources like chicken, turkey, tofu, legumes, eggs
• Consider collagen or bone broth for connective tissue support

Additional Considerations for Lipedema

Some individuals with Lipedema may benefit from:

• Keto or Modified Keto Diets: Low-carb, high-fat diets may reduce inflammation and improve fat metabolism in some patients
• Intermittent Fasting or Time-Restricted Eating: May help regulate insulin and reduce inflammation
• Avoiding Trigger Foods: Such as gluten, dairy, and nightshades if sensitivities are present