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Lymphatic Drainage Therapy in Reno/Tahoe
Manual lymphatic drainage therapy is one of the most effective ways to support healing after surgery — gently encouraging the body to clear the fluid that builds up around a procedure, which can reduce swelling, ease discomfort, and speed recovery. At Avance Plastic Surgery Institute in Reno/Tahoe, NV, this specialized therapy is provided by a dedicated lymphatic drainage expert as part of comprehensive post-operative care.
Meet Your Lymphatic Drainage Therapist
Lymphatic drainage therapy at Avance Plastic Surgery Institute is performed by Abby, a Doctor of Physical Therapy who has practiced in a wide range of settings across the nation since 2011. She completed her undergraduate education in Integrative Biology at UC Berkeley and earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. In 2012, she became a Certified Lymphedema Therapist through the Norton School of Lymphology, and in 2019 she earned the designation of Certified Oncology Rehabilitation Specialist through the Physiological Oncology Rehabilitation Institute. Her passion is helping patients achieve their best functional and physiological outcomes.
Understanding the Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs — made up of lymph vessels, lymph fluid, and lymph nodes — that drains lymph fluid from all over the body. You can think of it as the body’s waste-management plant, working around the clock to filter and dispose of the impurities left behind by other body systems. A healthy lymphatic system also supports many other major functions, including maintaining the body’s fluid balance, filtering blood and lymph, and fighting infection.
What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialized massage that gently assists the lymphatic system in maintaining the body’s fluid balance, blood circulation, and immune function. This light skin-stretching technique helps promote the movement of fluid that often accompanies surgical procedures. When combined with compression and gentle exercise, it can reduce both post-operative discomfort and swelling. By combining manual lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, and targeted lymphatic exercise, Abby is able to optimize lymphatic flow and functional recovery for patients after surgery.
The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs made up of lymph vessels, lymph fluid and lymph nodes that drain lymph fluid from all over the body. You can think of the lymphatic system as the body’s waste management plant, working around-the-clock to filter and dispose of impurities left behind by other body system. A healthy lymphatic system also contributes to many other major bodily functions, including: maintaining the bodies fluid balance, filtering blood, filtering lymph, and fighting infection.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialized massage that gently assists the lymphatic system in maintaining the body’s fluid balance, blood circulation, and immune mechanisms. This light skin-stretching technique helps to promote the movement of fluid that often accompanies surgical procedures. When combined with both compression and gentle exercises there can be a reduction in both post-operative discomfort and swelling. By utilizing manual lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, and targeted lymphatic exercise, we are able to optimize lymphatic flow and functional recovery for our patients after surgery.
Manual lymphatic drainage has been clinically proven to reduce swelling post-procedure as well as reduce pain and speed recovery:
The Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Therapy After Surgery
Manual lymphatic drainage has been clinically shown to support recovery after a procedure, with benefits that include:
- Reduced Swelling: faster clearing of the post-operative fluid that causes puffiness
- Less Discomfort: relief of post-operative pain and pressure
- Faster Recovery: improved lymphatic flow that supports quicker healing
- Better Circulation: support for healthy blood and lymph movement
- Immune Support: assistance for the body’s natural infection-fighting function
Frequently Asked Questions About Lymphatic Drainage Therapy
What is manual lymphatic drainage?
MLD is a gentle, specialized massage that helps move fluid through the lymphatic system. After surgery, it supports the body in clearing built-up fluid, which can reduce swelling and discomfort and speed recovery.
Who performs lymphatic drainage therapy at Avance?
It’s performed by Abby, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Lymphedema Therapist, and Certified Oncology Rehabilitation Specialist, who tailors each session to your recovery.
How does MLD help after plastic surgery?
Surgery often causes fluid to accumulate in the tissues. MLD, combined with compression and gentle exercise, promotes the movement of that fluid to reduce post-operative swelling and discomfort and support faster healing.
Is lymphatic drainage therapy painful?
No. MLD is a light, gentle skin-stretching technique, not deep-tissue massage. Most patients find it soothing and comfortable.
How many sessions will I need?
It varies by procedure and individual recovery. Abby will recommend a schedule based on your surgery and healing progress.
Schedule Lymphatic Drainage Therapy in Reno/Tahoe
If you’d like to support your recovery with expert lymphatic drainage therapy, contact Avance Plastic Surgery Institute in Reno/Tahoe, NV at (775) 800-4444 to schedule a session with Abby. Virtual consultations are also available for patients traveling from out of town.
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