Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Cosmetic Surgery Recovery in Rangiora, Canterbury
Pre- and Post-Operative Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Dr Vodder Method) to Reduce Swelling, Speed Healing & Enhance Results.
After cosmetic surgery, like any surgical procedure your primary goal is to heal as quickly as possible without any complications. Any surgical procedure is invasive, whether a facelift, tummy tuck, rhinoplasty, liposuction or hip replacement. This is why plastic surgeons recommend Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD). Rest is essential, but gentle lymphatic therapy can also support that process by helping to reduce pain, swelling, ease tenderness, and encourage your body’s natural recovery.
In the weeks after surgery, your body is busy repairing itself. Swelling, bruising and tenderness are part of this natural process, a sign that blood and lymph are bringing nutrients to the area and removing waste. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) encourages gentle movement of this fluid through the lymphatic system, helping your body clear what it no longer needs.
Lymphatic massage may help promote faster recovery after facelift, tummy tuck, or liposuction by reducing inflammation, swelling, and scar tissue formation
Dr Jeremy Hunt, FRACS – Plastic Surgeon, Sydney
What the Dr Vodder Method of Manual Lymphatic Drainage Is
The Dr Vodder Method is the original, form of Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). Created by Dr Emil Vodder in the 1930s and continuously refined through clinical research, it is recognised worldwide as the Gold Standard for lymphatic therapy. Lymphatic therapy is best known for its use post cancer, for example after mastectomy to help manage lymphoedema. I have also completed this Dr. Vodder training known as Certified Lymphoedema Therapy.
It is a precise, very gentle skin technique that follows specific anatomical pathways to stimulate lymph flow and support tissue healing, without the use of deep pressure, tools, or vigorous movements. There should never be bruising or skin redness, Every stroke, direction, and rhythm in the Dr Vodder Method is carefully designed to encourage the natural movement of lymph, reduce post-surgical swelling, ease inflammation, reduce scaring and improve comfort during healing.
I have completed the Dr Vodder Advanced Aesthetician training, a 94-hour in person program focused on lymphatic care for the face, neck, and body following cosmetic and surgical procedures. This advanced qualification allows me to work safely and effectively with pre and post-operative clients, supporting recovery after facelifts, abdominoplasty, liposuction, breast surgery, and other surgery. We follow specific protocols designed to enhance your healing and recovery.
This is not the “lymphatic massage” trend. The Dr Vodder Method has been refined over 90 years of clinical use, it remains the gold-standard technique for Manual Lymphatic Drainage, combining precise, rhythmic hand movements proven to stimulate lymph flow gently, safely and effectively.
Why Lymphatic Therapy Is Suggested for Cosmetic Surgery
When planning a cosmetic procedure, it’s important to understand that preparation and recovery care is important. The time, energy, and financial investment you make deserve the best possible outcome, and that includes preparing your body beforehand and supporting it afterwards.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) plays a key role in both pre- and post-surgical care, helping you heal more comfortably and optimise your final results. More people are choosing cosmetic and reconstructive procedures every year, both here in New Zealand and abroad, and MLD has become a trusted part of responsible aftercare.
During any surgical procedure, delicate lymphatic vessels are temporarily disrupted. These pathways normally remove cellular waste, excess fluid, and inflammatory by-products from the tissues. When they are affected, fluid can accumulate, creating swelling, tightness, or a feeling of heaviness, and scaring. Gentle lymphatic therapy helps re-establish those pathways, supporting the body’s natural process of clearing debris and restoring balance.
Including MLD in your recovery plan helps protect the investment you’ve made in your procedure , encouraging softer, smoother healing and the best possible result.
Benefits of MLD Post Cosmetic surgery.
While everybody recovers differently and each surgery requires a different approach these are general benefits
Reduced Swelling and Bruising
Gentle stimulation of the lymphatic system helps clear excess fluid and cellular waste from the tissues, easing puffiness and discomfort.
Improved Comfort and Mobility
By reducing pressure and stiffness around surgical areas, MLD can reduce pain and make movement and daily activities more comfortable during recovery.
Calmer Cosmetic Surgery Recovery
The slow, rhythmic nature of MLD activates the parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) response, lowering stress and supporting overall wellbeing while you heal.
Helping Recovery
MLD promotes the removal of cellular debris, excess fluids and toxins from the body, thereby accelerating the healing process, reducing inflammation and may decrease the risk of infection.
Enhanced Scar Softening and Tissue Health
Regular sessions help bring fresh circulation to healing areas, supporting healthy collagen formation and minimising the risk of fibrosis or lumpiness. When scars are fully closed, gentle techniques can also improve texture and mobility.
Reduce your risk of lymphoedema after Surgery
Dr Vodder Certified therapists are trained to recognise the signs and manage lymphoedema.
Common Questions For MLD for Cosmetic or Plastic Surgery.
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Most clients begin once all incisions are closed and the surgeon confirms it’s safe, usually 5–7 days after surgery. However, early sessions focus on gentle drainage away from the surgical area to reduce swelling without disturbing healing tissues.
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This depends on the type of surgery and how your body responds. A typical plan is 4–6 sessions in the first few weeks, followed by review. Clients who had more extensive procedures or travel swelling may benefit from a few extra treatments as recovery continues
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NO! It is very gentle, and we never squeeze fluid out of drain. We always work to your comfort level, this will change as your healing progresses. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) uses light, rhythmic movements rather than deep pressure. Most people find it soothing—many fall asleep during treatment as the nervous system relaxes.
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Overseas surgery is becoming more popular. If you are travelling we recommend more sessions prior to flying. I can also assist you with videos to help you, with your surgeons approval.
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No this is not the same. many MLD courses are for wellness only. We are trained for surgical recovery. The Dr Vodder Method is a an advanced technique, performed only by certified therapists. It follows specific anatomical pathways and is designed for safety after surgery, not cosmetic “drainage” trends seen online. We attend an in person 5 day course, in addition to the basic training.
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Wear comfortable clothing and drink plenty of water before and after your session. If you have compression garments, bring them with you, we’ll check fit and comfort together.
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Clients often feel less pain, and move more comfortably after the first appointment. They notice lighter, softer tissues, less tightness, and faster resolution of bruising and swelling. The results of your surgery should be enhanced, less noticeable scaring, less puffiness
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MLD is very gentle, but it isn’t suitable for everyone. But generally if you have had surgery you should be able to have MLD, unless you have an untreated infection.
We always review your health history first
Your surgery is a big investment and your preparation and recovery deserves the same level of care and attention.
Booking your lymphatic therapy in advance ensures your body is prepared, your healing starts smoothly, and you have the right support in place for when you return home.
As the only Certified Dr Vodder Advanced Aesthetician on the South Island, I offer specialised, evidence-based care for clients preparing for or recovering from cosmetic procedures.
Together, we’ll create a calm, personalised plan that supports your healing and helps you achieve the results you’ve hoped for.