Post Operative Swelling
Surgery saves lives and improves health, but the swelling that follows can be uncomfortable and slow your recovery. Post operative swelling is a natural response to surgical trauma, yet it can persist for weeks or months without proper management. At Dr N Clinics, Dr Nugwa offers lymphatic drainage therapy to reduce swelling, improve healing, and provide relief after surgery. This gentle, effective treatment helps your body clear excess fluid more efficiently, allowing you to recover more comfortably and return to normal activities sooner.
What is Post Operative Swelling
Post operative swelling occurs when fluid accumulates in tissues after surgery. During surgical procedures, tiny lymph vessels can become blocked or damaged from inflammation and tissue disruption. These vessels normally drain fluid away from tissues, but when blocked, fluid builds up causing swelling. The affected area becomes puffy, tight, and sometimes uncomfortable or painful. This swelling can slow healing and make recovery more difficult. Lymphatic drainage therapy addresses this problem directly. Through specialised massage techniques, the treatment opens blocked lymph nodes and vessels, encouraging fluid to flow in the correct direction. This reduces swelling more quickly than waiting for natural resolution, improves healing processes, and provides indirect pain relief as pressure decreases.
Treatment options
- Manual lymphatic drainage massage
- Opening blocked lymph nodes and junctions
- Directional fluid encouragement techniques
- Post surgical healing support
- Swelling reduction therapy
Key benefits
Post operative swelling treatment accelerates recovery and improves comfort.
- Reduces swelling more quickly than natural healing
- Improves surgical site healing
- Provides pain relief through pressure reduction
- Opens blocked lymph vessels and nodes
- Supports body’s natural drainage processes
- Non-invasive, gentle treatment
- Comfortable recovery experience
How long does the treatment last?
The number of treatments needed depends on the extent of your surgery and how much swelling you have. Some clients need just one or two sessions, whilst others benefit from several treatments over weeks. Most people notice significant improvement after their first treatment.
Swelling typically reduces progressively with each session. As lymphatic flow improves, your body continues draining excess fluid even between treatments. Once swelling resolves, you won’t need ongoing treatment unless new surgery creates fresh swelling. The goal is quick resolution of post operative fluid accumulation, allowing your body to heal properly without the burden of persistent swelling.
Treatment Options for Post Operative Swelling
Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Specialised gentle massage technique opening lymph pathways.
- Opens blocked lymph nodes and junctions
- Encourages fluid flow in correct direction
- Gentle, comfortable treatment approach
Post Surgical Healing Support
Treatment focused on accelerating recovery after surgery.
- Reduces swelling that slows healing
- Improves tissue health and repair
- Supports body’s natural recovery processes
Swelling Reduction Therapy
Targeted treatment for persistent fluid accumulation.
- Addresses stubborn post operative swelling
- Quick resolution of fluid buildup
- Provides relief and comfort
Pain Management Through Drainage
Reduces discomfort by relieving fluid pressure.
- Indirect pain relief as swelling decreases
- Improves comfort during recovery
- Reduces need for pain medication
Comprehensive Recovery Enhancement
Supports overall surgical recovery beyond swelling.
- Improves circulation to surgical site
- Enhances tissue healing
- Shortens overall recovery time
At a glance
Treatment time
Each lymphatic drainage session lasts approximately 45 to 60 minutes depending on the surgical area and extent of swelling being addressed. Treatment is gentle and relaxing.
Anaesthetic
Not required, treatment is very gentle
Recovery time
None, treatment itself requires no recovery
Duration of result
Progressive improvement, swelling reduces with each session
Sessions
Variable, typically one to several treatments depending on swelling extent
Results
Noticeable reduction often after first treatment, continued improvement with subsequent sessions
Aftercare
Stay well hydrated to support lymphatic system function. Avoid tight clothing on treated areas that restricts drainage. Gentle movement and walking encourages continued fluid drainage. Elevate affected areas when resting if appropriate. Follow surgeon’s post operative instructions alongside drainage therapy.
Prices
Pricing depends on the extent of swelling and the number of sessions needed. A series of six sessions is £1200. This treatment is also included in our annual membership package. During your consultation, Dr Nugwa will discuss costs based on your specific post-operative situation.
Frequently asked questions
If you would like to discuss any concerns with your provider or have any other questions regarding your medical history, please get in touch.
How soon after surgery can I have lymphatic drainage?
This depends on your specific surgery and surgeon’s recommendations. Generally, lymphatic drainage can begin once wounds are closed and your surgeon approves. Dr Nugwa will coordinate with your surgical team if needed.
Will it hurt after my surgery?
No, lymphatic drainage is very gentle. The massage technique uses light pressure specifically designed not to cause pain. Most clients find it relaxing and comfortable even shortly after surgery.
How many treatments will I need?
This varies based on your surgery type and how much swelling you have. Some people need one or two sessions, others benefit from several over weeks. Dr Nugwa will assess your needs.
Can lymphatic drainage prevent swelling completely?
No, some swelling after surgery is normal and necessary for healing. However, drainage therapy significantly reduces excess swelling and helps it resolve much faster than without treatment.
Does this work for all types of surgery?
Lymphatic drainage benefits most surgical procedures that cause swelling. It’s particularly helpful after cosmetic surgery, orthopaedic procedures, and any surgery affecting limbs or areas prone to fluid accumulation.
Can I do lymphatic drainage myself at home?
Basic techniques can be taught, but professional lymphatic drainage is far more effective. The specialised training required to properly open lymph nodes and encourage correct drainage direction makes professional treatment worthwhile.
Why choose Dr N Clinics?
Dr Nugwa’s medical background means she understands surgical recovery comprehensively. She knows which post operative situations benefit most from lymphatic drainage and when treatment should begin. Her gentle technique provides effective swelling reduction without compromising surgical healing. You’ll receive care that coordinates with your surgeon’s instructions, ensuring safe, appropriate treatment timing. Dr Nugwa’s goal is supporting your recovery, helping you heal more comfortably and return to normal life sooner. Post operative swelling doesn’t have to be an inevitable burden. With proper lymphatic drainage, your recovery can be significantly more comfortable.