Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, specialized massage technique that supports your body’s natural lymphatic system — the network responsible for moving fluid, removing toxins, and maintaining immune balance.
Unlike regular massage, MLD uses light, rhythmic, and carefully patterned strokes that stimulate lymph flow just beneath the skin. It’s deeply calming and therapeutic, often used to reduce swelling, support post-surgical recovery, and boost overall detoxification.
Think of it as a “reset” for your body’s internal drainage and circulation systems — subtle yet incredibly effective. Manual Lymphatic Drainage can be combined with Red Light Therapy for additional benefits to your healing journey.
Who It’s Best For
- Clients recovering from cosmetic or orthopedic surgery (e.g., liposuction, BBL, tummy tuck, joint replacement)
- Those experiencing lymphedema, swelling, or water retention
- People seeking gentle detox support or immune system balance
- Individuals with chronic inflammation, fatigue, or sluggish circulation
- Anyone who prefers a light-touch, non-invasive therapy that still produces powerful results
It’s especially beneficial after surgery or injury when the lymphatic system needs extra help moving fluid and promoting healing.
Procedures and Conditions That Benefit from Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is often recommended by physicians and surgeons to reduce swelling, speed healing, and improve circulation after surgery or during recovery from certain conditions.
Below is a list of procedures and medical circumstances where MLD may be beneficial and HSA/FSA-eligible (with a Letter of Medical Necessity).
Post-Surgical Recovery
- Liposuction (traditional, laser, or VASER)
- Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
- Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
- Mommy makeover procedures
- Arm lift (brachioplasty)
- Thigh lift
- Breast augmentation or reduction
- Facelift, neck lift, or chin lipo
- Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
- Rhinoplasty (nose surgery)
- Body contouring or fat transfer procedures
Orthopedic & Joint Surgeries
- Knee replacement or resurfacing
- Hip replacement
- Shoulder surgeries (rotator cuff repair, joint reconstruction)
- Ankle or wrist surgery
- Sports-related orthopedic procedures
- Post-fracture or ligament reconstruction
Medical & Chronic Conditions
- Lymphedema or chronic fluid retention
- Edema related to venous insufficiency
- Fibromyalgia
- Post-cancer treatment swelling (with physician clearance)
- Chronic inflammation or autoimmune-related swelling
- Migraine or sinus-related congestion
- Post-radiation or post-chemotherapy tissue recovery
- Chronic fatigue or immune system sluggishness
Why Choose Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Because sometimes healing needs a little help from science and touch. MLD helps you:
- Reduce post-surgical swelling and bruising
- Support immune system function and detoxification
- Ease water retention and puffiness
- Improve circulation and promote faster tissue recovery
- Feel relaxed and renewed while aiding natural healing
It’s gentle enough for recovery yet powerful enough to make a noticeable difference after just one session.
How Manual Lymphatic Drainage Is Performed at Home
We bring all professional supplies to your home or recovery space — massage table, linens, gentle oil or lotion, and sanitation materials. Here’s how a session typically flows:
- The therapist begins with light, rhythmic strokes that follow the natural direction of lymphatic flow.
- Gentle pressure is used — never deep or painful — to encourage drainage toward the lymph nodes.
- Focus areas often include the neck, abdomen, arms, and legs, depending on your condition.
- For post-surgical clients, the therapist avoids incisions while promoting healing and reducing swelling safely.
The treatment is deeply relaxing and leaves you feeling lighter, clearer, and more balanced.
Who Shouldn’t Get It
While MLD is very safe, it’s not appropriate for everyone. Avoid or get medical clearance first if you have:
- Active infections, fever, or illness
- Congestive heart failure or severe cardiac conditions
- Kidney disease or acute renal dysfunction
- Blood clots (DVT) or recent thrombosis
- Active cancer or undergoing chemotherapy/radiation (unless approved by your doctor)
Your therapist will always perform a careful intake before your session to ensure that lymphatic work is appropriate and safe for your condition.
Use Your HSA/FSA for Your Manual Lymphatic Drainage at Home Services
You can now use your HSA or FSA benefits to pay for condition-oriented massage sessions when supported by a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) from a licensed provider.
We’ve partnered with Dr. B to make it simple — for about $15, you can get your LMN online within one business day through a quick virtual consultation:
Get Your Low Cost Letter Here
Once you have your letter:
- Pay normally using any standard payment method, then submit your Letter of Medical Necessity and receipt to your HSA/FSA administrator for reimbursement.
You can also read more about the process of using your HSA/FSA for mobile massage services.
Make the most of your pre-tax health funds while prioritizing your wellness — fast, easy, and stress-free.
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