Let's face it. Nobody looks forward to surgery.

Surgery is 100%, no doubt, completely and entirely… a bummer. Even when it's got to be done.

But, adding a lymphatic drainage massage to your surgery recovery plan can help speed healing, relieve pain, and provide much needed relaxation. After all, surgery is stressful.

Anchorage may be a small town, but when it comes lymphatic drainage massage — we have just as much skill as the biggest city in the world.

That’s because our team at Anchorage Massage Therapies has over two decades of experience providing lymphatic drainage massage to post-operative patients.

Whether you want to come in for a single session after having surgery in Anchorage — or make lymphatic drainage part of a long-term recovery plan, this type of massage works wonders to help get you back on your feet.

So, let's talk about why getting a post-op lymphatic drainage massage in Anchorage is essential for a swift recovery from surgery.

Here we go!

What is a lymphatic drainage massage, anyway?

A lymphatic drainage massage is a type of massage that focuses on stimulating your body's lymphatic system.

Your body's lymphatic system is one of your body's systems that keep it functioning, like how your respiratory system is responsible for your breathing, and your circulatory system is responsible for your blood.

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and tissues running from your head to your toes.

It helps removes waste, toxins, and excess fluid from your tissues. That's why it's critical in helping your body's ability to heal and protect itself. 

During a lymphatic drainage massage, our therapists stimulate the lymphatic system to get your lymph fluid moving.

Using rhythmic, gentle movements, your therapist works the fluid through your body and encourages it to move toward your kidneys where it’s filtered, so that toxins can exit your body through your urine.

But, you can leave the anatomy to us. Although all of this sounds technical, the only thing you need to focus on is healing and relaxing. 

A lymphatic drainage massage also stimulates the body's parasympathetic nervous system. In other words, it allows your body and mind to relax.

There are so many benefits of getting a lymphatic massage in Anchorage! But they don't stop there.

The benefits of post-op lymphatic drainage massage

The lymphatic system can become compromised during surgery, leading to fluid buildup and swelling.

Post-op lymphatic drainage massage can help remove excess fluid, reduce swelling, and promote healing.

Not only does post-op lymphatic drainage massage aid in reducing swelling and inflammation, but it also helps to minimize scar tissue formation, improve mobility, and relieve post-surgical pain. 

The gentle and rhythmic strokes during the massage help push excess fluid from the surgical site. By reducing swelling and inflammation, post-op lymphatic drainage massage helps to improve your flexibility and range of motion.

This can be especially beneficial if you've undergone a joint or muscle-related surgery.

Lymphatic drainage clears the effects of anesthesia

Lymphatic drainage also helps to reduce the effects of anesthesia and medications given during surgery and clears them from your body faster. Many of our Anchorage massage clients say that after a post-op lymphatic drainage massage, they feel "lighter." 

This is because the drugs given during surgery cause a sense of heaviness and sluggishness.

By gently manipulating the lymph vessels and nodes, our therapists help move the leftover medications and anesthetic drugs out of the body.

Lymphatic massage boosts the immune system

A lymphatic drainage massage also helps to reduce inflammation, promote tissue regeneration, and boost the immune system.

If you've had surgery before, you know doctors are particularly concerned about the risk of infection after surgery.

Lymphatic drainage massage helps to decrease the risk of infection since toxins are removed, and immunity is boosted.

Lymphatic drainage helps your tissues heal

Lymphatic drainage massage can also help reduce pain, bruising, and scarring.

By enhancing your circulation, a post-op massage delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the tissues, helping incisions, organs, tissues, and ligaments heal faster.

Plus, post-op lymphatic drainage massage has a positive impact on your well-being.

Lymphatic drainage can help you sleep

We all know how important it is to get a good night's sleep after surgery. Sleeping well is critical to helping your body heal.

Since lymphatic drainage promotes relaxation, it may help you fall asleep faster and get a more restful night's sleep.

Lymphatic drainage also boosts the body's happy hormones like oxytocin, which can improve your mood and also help relieve pain. Your caregiver will thank you.

In other words, it’s a holistic approach to recovery that significantly enhance your overall healing experience.

Now that you know why lymphatic drainage massage after surgery can be incredibly beneficial, let's talk about when to start it.

When to start post-op lymphatic drainage massage

The timing of your post-op lymphatic drainage massage in Anchorage depends on various factors, including the kind of surgery you had, the duration and intensity of the procedure, and your overall health. 

Many of our patients come in only days after their surgery, and that's fine! If you have incisions or stitches, we will gently work around them to help you heal and get you out of pain.

Some of our patients come in for only one session… others book weekly lymphatic drainage massage sessions to aid the body's healing process until they're back in the swing of things again.

Whether you had a simple outpatient procedure or a long and complicated surgery, our therapists ensure you feel supported and comfortable as we get you back on the road to wellness.

You can contact us before your first appointment if you have questions about when to start a lymphatic drainage massage.

Additionally, your health insurance plan may cover your treatments. Anchorage Massage Therapies accepts Aetna and Blue Cross.

We check your authorization for you and handle the billing… so that you… can focus on the healing. Contact us for more information.

How to find a qualified post-op lymphatic drainage massage therapist

Finding a qualified post-op lymphatic drainage massage therapist in Anchorage is essential for safe and effective recovery.

Our therapists at Anchorage Massage Therapies have received special training to ensure the massage is performed safely and effectively to give you the best results.

Our therapists are licensed in lymphatic drainage massage, and our studio is the number one service provider for lymphatic drainage massage in town.

In other words, you’re literally in the best hands.

What to expect during a post-op lymphatic drainage massage session

Our post-op lymphatic drainage massage sessions are 60, 75, or 90 minutes. We recommend at least a 75-minute appointment if it's your first time receiving lymphatic drainage.

During your session, you lie comfortably on our massage tables. The heat can be adjusted to your liking.

Our Anchorage massage therapist applies gentle and rhythmic strokes to your body to release the lymphatic fluid and then move it toward your lymph nodes and down toward your kidneys to exit the body during urination.

The pressure is light and soothing, ensuring it does not cause discomfort or pain. Our therapists work methodically, following the natural flow of the lymphatic system.

You will likely feel a sense of relaxation and relief during the massage. Many patients find the experience calming and therapeutic, allowing them to focus on their healing process and release stress and tension. 

Communicating with your therapist and providing feedback during your session is encouraged to ensure you're comfortable and getting the relief you need. But, if you don’t want to talk — that’s ok too.

Some of our clients say a lymphatic drainage massage from us is the best massage in Anchorage. We agree.

Tips for maximizing the benefits of post-op lymphatic drainage massage

To maximize the benefits of your post-op lymphatic drainage massage, you may want to consider following these steps:

1. Stay hydrated: Drinking lots of water before and after your massage assists in removing toxins from your body and supporting lymphatic flow.

2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating well, exercising, and practicing stress management techniques can enhance the effectiveness of the massage and promote overall healing after surgery.

3. Follow your surgeon's instructions: Following your surgeon's post-operative instructions and guidelines is crucial. This may include wearing compression garments, avoiding certain activities, or taking prescribed medications. We have recommendations if you're interested in learning more about compression garments. Just ask.

4. Be consistent with your sessions: Regular and consistent sessions are vital to experiencing the full benefits of post-op lymphatic drainage massage. Our therapists can recommend a treatment schedule based on your unique needs.

5. Communicate with your therapist: Openly communicate with your therapist about your progress, concerns, and any changes you may be experiencing. This allows them to tailor your massage sessions to your unique needs and provide the best care.

Other post-op recovery techniques to complement lymphatic drainage massage

While a massage after surgery can be highly beneficial, it is often most effective when combined with other post-operative recovery techniques. 

Here are some additional strategies that can complement your massage and promote a swift and smooth recovery:

1. Proper wound care: Follow your surgeon's instructions for wound care to prevent infections and facilitate healing. This includes cleaning the incision site, changing dressings, and keeping the area dry and protected.

2. Physical therapy: Depending on the type of surgery, your surgeon may recommend physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Physical therapy exercises can be performed with post-op lymphatic drainage massage to enhance overall recovery. We can recommend physical therapists if you'd like.

3. Pain management: Talk to your surgeon about pain management options. This may include prescribed medications, over-the-counter pain relievers, or alternative therapies such as acupuncture or heat therapy.

4. Healthy lifestyle choices: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can support your body's healing process. Ensure you are getting enough rest and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.

Let us be part of your post-op journey

Post-op lymphatic drainage massage is a powerful tool to aid surgery recovery.

Thanks to our highly trained team of therapists, you can get a lymphatic drainage massage in Anchorage all year round.

By stimulating the lymphatic system, this specialized massage technique helps to reduce swelling, minimize scar tissue formation, improve mobility, and relieve post-surgical pain. 

It promotes healing, enhances circulation, and accelerates the removal of toxins and excess fluid from the surgical area.

Lymphatic drainage really can truly transform your healing to get you on the road to recovery. We’re here when you’re ready to get started… and we look forward to treating you. 🌟