Also known as MLD (Manual lymphatic drainage), Lymphatic Drainage massage is a gentle therapeutic technique that encourages the movement of lymph fluid around the body to assist in removing metabolic waste/toxins.

Health benefits include:

Reduce swelling/fluid retention, improved immune function, increase relaxation, improved circulation, assists with post-surgical recovery, improve digestion.

Manual Lymphatic drainage can provide relief from various medical conditions such as:

Lymphedema (Primary and Secondary Lymphedema), Migraines, Fibromyalgia, Insomnia, Post injury/surgical swelling, Cancer, Lipedema, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Constipation, Rheumatoid Arthritis.

No. Manual Lymphatic Drainage is very gentle and non-invasive. It should never be painful. Most clients find it deeply relaxing.

This technique involves rhythmic strokes and pumping movements towards the direction of lymphatic flow.

Please note that I DO NOT remove drains or perform incision/drainage, as it is not indicated for this type of therapy and is outside my scope of practice.

I am a Vodder-trained Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) and strictly perform Vodder Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) for clients with lymphedema or those who are post-surgical.

This is a specialized, medical-based technique designed to reduce swelling, support healing, and improve lymphatic function.

I do not incorporate Brazilian techniques into these sessions.

My Wellness Massage is a unique blend of three massage styles offered to clients who are not currently in active recovery phase:

Vodder MLD – for gentle, targeted lymphatic flow.

Brazilian lymphatic drainage techniques – to sculpt, contour, and invigorate circulation.

Swedish techniques – to deeply relax muscles and melt away tension.

These styles are seamlessly combined into one customized experience, designed to leave you feeling lighter, rejuvenated, and balanced.

Many plastic surgeons recommend starting Manual Lymphatic Drainage within the 48-72 hour window to reduce swelling, prevent fluid buildup (Seroma) and promote healing.

First 2 weeks:

MLD may be performed 2-3 x’s week.

3-6 weeks:

Frequency of treatment tapers as swelling decreases, but continued sessions support tissue healing and smooth contours.

Always consult your surgeon first! Each person heals differently and some surgeons may want you to wait depending on the type of procedure you had.

Yes! However it’s best to wait until you have been discharged from home care services to begin (roughly ~4 weeks post-op), unless you have received clearance from your doctor to begin sooner.

MLD after a joint replacement can help reduce post operative swelling, decrease pain, decrease stiffness at the joint.

Lymphatic drainage should complement your Physical Therapy program, it should never replace it.

Everyone is different . The number of recommended sessions will depend on your goals. Some people benefit from a few sessions, while post-surgical clients may require a series of appointments for optimal results.

Before + After:

Hydrate, light activity, gentle stretching

Avoid alcohol, caffeine, large meals

Avoid foods high in salt, fat, oils

Empty your bladder before starting your session

Wear loose comfortable clothing

Plan for a day of rest & perform gentle stretching post treatment - Yin Yoga is great!

Individuals with acute infections, Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), blood clots, certain cancers, kidney disease. If you are unsure whether you would be a good candidate, please contact me.

Most people do not experience side effects, but some may notice:

Temporary fatigue

Increase urination

Mild nausea or dizziness

Not directly. Lymphatic drainage does not burn fat, however can reduce bloating and fluid retention. The effects are subtle, but support natural slimming over time with lifestyle changes.

The “lean” look is temporary unless it is apart of a consistent wellness routine. Lymphatic drainage does not replace fat loss from diet/exercises.