Do You Need Lymphatic Massage After Breast Augmentation?

Rated as one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures, breast augmentation in NYC enhances the overall appearance of women by sculpting and enlarging their breasts. The procedure improves the volume and firmness of breasts lost due to excessive weight loss, pregnancy, aging and so on. The enhanced appearance in turn boosts one’s self-esteem, body image, and confidence. After this procedure, many plastic surgeons recommend lymphatic massage on the treated breasts. Many prospective patients have doubts regarding lymphatic massage and whether it’s necessary after breast augmentation.

 Breast Augmentation

Also known as manual lymphatic drainage, lymphatic massage relieves swelling that happens when medical treatment or illness blocks your lymphatic system – which is key to healing, regenerating tissues, and removing toxins from the body. Intended to treat Lymphedema – the swelling caused by accumulated fluid that happens after the surgical removal of lymph nodes, typically in mastectomy surgeries – lymphatic massage is different from an ordinary massage. This medically specific massage – when performed by highly skilled practitioners – prevents lymphatic fluid accumulation in the surgical area and capsular contracture. It also provides relief to the patient without hindering the wound healing process.

When the body is experiencing unusual stress – such as while fighting off illness, healing from an infection or surgery, or experiencing emotional stress – the lymphatic system slows down. To “re-start” the system, manual lymphatic massage may be advised which provides a variety of benefits, including the following:

  • Efficient healing from illness, injury, or surgery
  • Reduces swelling
  • Helps prevent fluid collection
  • Supports relaxation
  • Relieves stress
  • Reduces discomfort and scar formation by boosting healing responses
  • Removes excess water and metabolic waste from the tissues in the body
  • Promotes the flushing of toxins
  • Prevents the formation of scar tissue and fibrosis
  • Improves circulation of blood and lymphatic fluid
  • Stimulates wound healing
  • Improves skin quality and provides a more vibrant appearance

Swelling is one of the side effects most patients experience with breast augmentation or any other plastic surgery procedures such as tummy tuck or liposuction. This normal inflammatory response is a part of the healing process as fluid rushes to the area to nourish it with white blood cells. However, with the help of Lymphatic massage you can reduce the post-op swelling and speed up the appearance of good results.

The main goal of lymphatic massage after breast augmentation is to prevent capsular contracture, a condition wherein the scar tissue around the implant causes the breasts to harden. This gentle treatment that involves extremely gentle hand strokes – which are quite relaxing – helps to move the fluid that’s built up and allows it to move back into the lymphatic passages where excess waste and fluid can be flushed from the body. Many plastic surgeons highly recommend lymphatic drainage after breast augmentation in NYC for their patients’ comfort as well as to help them get optimal results after their procedure. Remember that the massage can be performed only at least six weeks after the breast augmentation surgery.

However, before getting the massage, patients should first discuss the benefits and potential complications of the lymphatic drainage massage with their plastic surgeons. Ask your surgeon how important it is for you to get a massage after the procedure. importantly, If your surgeon is in favor of the massage, he/she will ensure that the technique is tailored to your needs.

If you are considering breast augmentation in New York City, find an AAAASF-accredited plastic surgery practice with plastic surgeons who are experts in this procedure.