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Can Lymphatic Massage Improve Recovery After Cosmetic Surgery? A 2023 Review Explains How It Works
- Christy Van Hoogevest
- Jun 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 5
A 2023 review published in Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum explored the role of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) in preventing and managing swelling after surgery — with a particular focus on its applications in cosmetic procedures like liposuction, facial surgeries, and body contouring. The review summarizes the biological mechanisms of lymphatic massage and highlights its role in restoring lymphatic flow, reducing fibrosis, and supporting recovery when the lymphatic system is disrupted.
For aesthetic clinics, this reinforces MLD’s relevance as part of a complete recovery protocol — and supports the use of mechanical lymphatic drainage systems that apply similar principles in a more scalable, equipment-based format.
Study Overview
Title: The Utility of Lymphatic Massage in Cosmetic Procedures
Quick Summary: This narrative review explores the biological function of the lymphatic system and how MLD — a specialized form of massage used in lymphedema treatment — can be adapted to reduce fluid retention and promote healing after cosmetic surgery. It also provides a conceptual bridge between traditional lymphedema treatment and post-operative aesthetic care.
Key Findings
Mechanism of Action: MLD helps redirect fluid from disrupted or damaged lymphatic channels to functioning ones, supporting reabsorption and reducing accumulation of post-surgical fluid.
Preventing Complications: Cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, facelifts, and body contouring often disrupt normal lymphatic flow. MLD may help prevent or mitigate lymphedema, seroma formation, and fibrosis.
Therapeutic Role: MLD is a core component of complete decongestive therapy (CDT), the gold standard for non-surgical lymphedema treatment. In post-surgical settings, it is increasingly used as a non-invasive strategy to enhance healing and reduce inflammation.
Study Details
Type: Narrative literature review
Focus: Role of manual lymphatic drainage in treating and preventing lymphedema, with specific emphasis on cosmetic surgery applications
Conditions Discussed:
Lymphedema (primary and secondary)
Lymphatic disruption following surgery
Cosmetic surgery-related swelling and fluid retention
Modalities Covered:
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)
Complete decongestive therapy (CDT)
Surgical interventions for lymphedema
Year Published: 2023
Where Published: Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum
Why It Matters
Cosmetic surgeries can temporarily disrupt lymphatic circulation — leading to swelling, fluid buildup, and slower healing. This review supports what many practitioners already observe: lymphatic drainage plays a meaningful role in post-op recovery.
While manual lymphatic drainage remains the clinical gold standard, BH Labs offers a mechanical lymphatic suit based on the same principles, using intermittent compression to promote fluid movement and support healing. Suites like this have been shown to be as effective as manual lymphatic drainage massage in specific applications. This makes it easier for clinics to scale recovery care — without needing dedicated manual therapists on staff.