Manual lymphatic drainage in Worthing
A gentle, rhythmic treatment to support your lymphatic system
What is manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)?
Your lymphatic system plays an important role in maintaining fluid balance, removing toxins and waste, and supporting your immune system.
Manual lymphatic drainage uses very gentle, rhythmic movements to encourage the movement of lymph fluid, manage swelling and fluid build up and reduce discomfort .
I can support you with post-surgery recovery, managing lymphoedema and with general wellbeing - due to the calming effects of MLD on the nervous system.
What to expect from a treatment
Each treatment begins with a consultation to discuss your health, symptoms and what you'd like to achieve, before we agree on a treatment plan.
MLD involves slow, gentle and rhythmic movements with light pressure across the skin. Depending on your needs, treatment may focus on one area or involve several areas of the body. MLD is different from a massage working with the muscles, so you won't experience deep pressure.
How it can help
Lymphatic drainage may be helpful in managing a variety of conditions including:
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Lymphoedema
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Post-operative swelling
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Pregnancy and postnatal swelling
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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME)
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Long covid
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Pain relief
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Digestive problems
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Stress, anxiety, low mood
Please bear in mind that MLD isn't suitable for every type of swelling, and results vary depending on the client. Persistent or unexplained swelling should always be assessed by a healthcare professional before treatment.
MLD before and after surgery
MLD can form part of a pre and post-operative care plan for surgery and cosmetic procedures, to promote faster healing and reduce inflammation. Please speak to your surgical team before arranging a treatment. I will require clearance from them before booking you in.
Procedures where pre and post-operative MLD may be considered include:
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Liposuction
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Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)
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Breast augmentation, reduction and lift
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Body contouring
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Rhinoplasty (nose job)
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Cosmetic fat transfer
Scar support
Once an incision is fully healed, specialised scar massage may be considered to help with scar mobility and tissue flexibility.
How often to book in
The frequency of treatment depends on your reason for having lymphatic drainage, your health and how you respond.
For general wellbeing
Every 3-4 weeks can work well for many clients as general maintenance.
For swelling and lymphoedema
A more structured treatment plan would be recommended for diagnosed lymphoedema. MLD is usually one part of a wider approach, which may include compression therapy and exercise.
Treatment frequency should be guided by your lymphoedema specialist, but I often suggest 2-3 sessions per week to begin with, followed by 1 per week or fortnight, depending on how you respond.
Pre and post-surgery
Your treatment schedule will depend on the procedure and your surgeon's advice. Many clients benefit from 2-3 sessions per week for the first few weeks, and gradually reducing the frequency.
Pricing
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30 minutes: £45
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45 minutes: £60
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60 minutes: £80
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90 minutes: £100
Packages
Save 10% when you book three treatments, and save 15% when you book six treatments.
I offer a limited number of monthly sliding-scale appointments. Please feel free to get in touch for a chat about this.
Manual lymphatic drainage FAQs
What does MLD feel like?
MLD is very gentle and uses slow, rhythmic movements with light pressure. It should feel comfortable and relaxing, rather than like a massage.
What is the difference between MLD and massage?
Traditional massage focuses on muscles and soft tissues, often using firmer pressure. MLD uses specialised, light-touch movements to encourage lymphatic flow.
Can I book MLD before and after surgery or a cosmetic procedure?
Yes, MLD may be suitable before or after certain procedures, depending on your health and the type of surgery. Your surgical team must confirm that treatment is appropriate.
How soon after surgery can I have lymphatic drainage?
This varies depending on the procedure, your healing and your surgeon's advice. Some post-operative protocols allow gentle MLD within the first few days, while others require a longer wait. I will always need your surgical team's clearance.
Can MLD help with old scars?
Even years after surgery, MLD when combined with scar therapies like myofascial release can improve the appearance of old scars. This is because MLD can clear the build up of fluid, reduce swelling, promote healing and improve the scar's appearance by preventing scar tissue.
