Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage necesssary post liposuction?
- Jeanine Mewburn
- Jan 22
- 2 min read
Liposuction is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat from specific areas of the body such as the arms, abdomen, thighs, primarily for the purpose of body sculpting.
Water-assisted liposuction is often the preferred technique for people with lipoedema, as it is gentler than traditional liposuction. This method uses a saline solution to loosen fat cells, allowing for easier suction and causing less trauma to surrounding tissues, including the lymphatic system, blood vessels, and nerves. While water-assisted liposuction can significantly improve symptoms, it is not a cure for lipoedema. Long-term management remains essential and should include a tailored maintenance program.
Following surgery, plastic surgeons commonly recommend Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLDM) and the use of compression garments. These interventions aim to reduce pain, swelling, bruising, tissue fibrosis (scarring), and the risk of developing lymphoedema — another potential and unwanted outcome of liposuction.
Research supports this approach. A 2024 study suggests that combining MLDM with compression therapy significantly reduces the risk of post-surgical lymphoedema. Additionally, a 2014 study found that therapeutic ultrasound used alongside MLDM resulted in a statistically significant reduction in pain, swelling, and tissue fibrosis. Further research indicates that MLDM may be more effective than pneumatic compression in addressing post-surgical cellulite — an unwanted outcome of liposuction that most women find aesthetically concerning.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage plays a valuable role in post-liposuction recovery, particularly for individuals with lipoedema. By supporting lymphatic flow, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue healing, MLDM helps minimise complications such as excessive swelling, fibrosis, cellulite, and lymphoedema. When combined with compression therapy and a holistic maintenance plan, MLDM can help optimise both functional and aesthetic outcomes. It forms part of a thoughtful and informed approach to aftercare.
With many years of experience working with lymphoedema and lipoedema, including post-surgical recovery, I understand that each person’s healing journey is unique. Supportive care may include Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage, guidance with compression therapy, and accurate measuring and fitting of compression garments — always tailored to individual needs and recovery goals. For those seeking gentle, informed support, this type of aftercare can make a meaningful difference in comfort, confidence, and long-term outcomes.
“Recovery is not just about healing the body — it’s about supporting it wisely.”
Reference
Amany, R. Shafik, Haidy, N., Asham, P., Sameh M. El-Taher, Esraa H. Rostom, P. (2019). Manual Lymphatic Drainage Versus Pneumatic Compression Pump on Cellulite Post Liposuction. The Medical Journal of Cairo University, 87, 2175-2182. doi:DOI: 10.21608/mjcu.2019.54375
Erdal, A. I. (2023). Manual Massage in Plastic Surgery: Current Practices and Surgeons’ Perspectives. Indian Journal of Surgery, 1159–1169. Retrieved 01 20, 2026, from https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12262-023-03701-7
Luh Putu Citra Dewi Jayanti, D. A. (2024). Compression garment and lymphatic drainage to reduce lymphedema after abdominal liposuction. Malahayati Health Student Journl. doi:ttps://doi.org/10.33024/mahesa.v4i10.15292
Masson, I., de Oliveira, B. D., Fernandez Perez Machado, A., Saikali Farcic, T., Estevez Junior, I., & Schiavinato Baldan, C. (2014). Manual lymphatic drainage and therapeutic ultrasound in liposuction and lipoabdominoplasty post-operative period. Assofiation of Plastic Surgeons of India, 70-76. doi:DOI: 10.4103/0970-0358.129627
V. Bayrakci Tunay, T. A. (2010). Effects of mechanical massage, manual lymphatic drainage and connective tissue manipulation techniques on fat mass in women with cellulite. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-3083.2009.03355.x
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