Donna currently books through Illume Cosmetic Surgery & MedSpa at both locations, Glendale and Waukesha. Book with her directly on Illume's site.
After surgery, your body sends extra fluid to the treated area as part of healing. Procedures like liposuction disturb the small lymph vessels that normally carry that fluid away, so swelling can linger, feel tight and become uncomfortable. Post-surgical lymphatic massage uses gentle, rhythmic strokes to guide that fluid back toward working lymph nodes so your body can clear it.
How post-op lymphatic massage may help
Reduce swelling and that tight, "puffy" feeling
Ease bruising and tenderness
Help keep tissue soft and smooth, and reduce the risk of firm, lumpy areas (fibrosis)
Make you more comfortable as you return to normal life
Help you see your results more clearly as swelling settles
Procedures we support
Liposuction and Lipo 360
Brazilian butt lift (BBL)
Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) and mommy makeover
Breast augmentation, reduction and lift
Facelift, neck lift and other facial surgery
Arm and thigh lifts
Post-weight loss skin removal
What to expect at your appointment
Bring your compression garment, any foam boards or faja, and your surgeon's post-op instructions. Donna will ask about your procedure, your surgery date and how you're feeling. She'll start by opening the lymph nodes at your neck, underarms and core, then work slowly over the treated areas, always moving fluid toward healthy drainage pathways. Sessions are calm, unhurried and adjusted to how tender you are.
Plan your sessions before surgery
The best time to book is before your procedure. That way your first few sessions are already in the calendar for when your surgeon clears you, and you're not hunting for appointments while you're sore. Read: how many lymphatic massages do you need after lipo?
When should I start lymphatic massage after surgery?
Many surgeons clear patients to begin within a few days to a week after liposuction, BBL or a tummy tuck, but timing varies by procedure and surgeon. Always follow your surgeon's instructions, and bring your post-op notes to your first appointment.
How many post-op lymphatic massages will I need?
It depends on your procedure and how your body heals. Many people book several sessions in the first two to four weeks, then taper off. Larger procedures like Lipo 360 or a mommy makeover often need more. Donna will suggest a plan after your first visit.
Does post-surgical lymphatic massage hurt?
It shouldn't. The technique is light and slow, and Donna adjusts pressure to your comfort and to how tender you are. Some areas may feel sensitive, but the treatment should never be painful.
Should I wear my compression garment?
Yes, bring it and wear it to and from your appointment unless your surgeon has told you otherwise. You'll take it off for the massage and put it straight back on afterwards.
Can lymphatic massage help with fibrosis or hard lumps after lipo?
Regular lymphatic massage in the early weeks is commonly recommended to help keep tissues soft and support smoother healing. If you already have firm areas, let Donna know so she can focus on them, and keep your surgeon informed.
Feel lighter. Heal beautifully.
Book a lymphatic massage with Donna in Glendale or Waukesha.
