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Manual lymphatic drainage: why it is essential for post-surgical inflammation relief

November 23, 2025 at 5:00 AM
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When you’re healing from cosmetic or medical surgery, staying ahead of inflammation is one of the most important parts of your recovery. Swelling is normal — but prolonged fluid buildup can slow progress, increase discomfort, and make the healing process feel overwhelming. That’s where Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) becomes not just helpful, but essential.

At Wings Wellness, we specialize in evidence-based post-operative care, and MLD is one of the most effective, gentle tools we use to support safe and comfortable healing.

What MLD Does During Post-Op Recovery

MLD uses light, rhythmic, directional strokes to stimulate the lymphatic system — the body’s natural fluid-clearing network. After surgery, trauma to the tissues slows lymphatic flow. MLD acts like a manual “reset,” improving circulation and reducing stagnation.

Key benefits of MLD for post-surgical inflammation include:

  • Accelerated reduction of swelling and bruising
  • Faster healing and improved mobility
  • Less tenderness around surgical sites
  • A decrease in the tight, “waterlogged” feeling
  • Support for immune and waste-removal functions

MLD is extremely gentle — perfect for clients healing from procedures like Lipo 360, tummy tucks, arm or thigh lifts, BBL, breast surgeries, and facial surgeries.

Why Safety Matters in Post-Op Care

Not all techniques are safe for newly post-op bodies. At Wings Wellness, we do not squeeze fluid out of incisions or use aggressive tools that can create complications. Our approach prioritizes:
✔ Safety
✔ Surgeon-aligned techniques
✔ Tissue integrity
✔ Long-term results

Your body deserves healing that is thoughtful, clinical, and supportive.

Who Benefits Most from MLD?

MLD is highly recommended for:

  • Clients within 1–12 weeks of surgery
  • Individuals with ongoing swelling
  • Anyone experiencing fibrosis or hardness
  • Clients wanting to accelerate recovery naturally

Whether you are in Week 1 or Week 10, MLD can help your body heal more efficiently.

Ready to Enhance Your Recovery?

Book your post-operative MLD session or click here to explore our 3, 6, 10, or 20-session packages designed for optimal recovery results.

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