Lymphatic Massage
in Novi, Michigan

Lymphatic massage is a gentle technique that supports the body’s natural healing processes, particularly after liposuction and tummy tucks. It helps optimize recovery and achieve the best possible outcomes. Our in-house massage services are tailored to each patient’s needs and can be performed with a convenient schedule. They reduce swelling, enhance comfort, and accelerate healing, helping people progress toward their final cosmetic results. Performed by our certified nursing staff or guided for at-home care, lymphatic massages play a vital role in a comprehensive recovery plan.
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What Is Lymphatic Massage? Banner

What Is Lymphatic Massage?

Lymphatic massage is a specialized technique that stimulates the lymphatic system to promote the removal of excess fluid, toxins, and waste from the body. Using gentle, rhythmic movements and light pressure, our therapists help improve circulation and reduce swelling, particularly in areas affected by surgery or injury. Lymphatic massage is often recommended after liposuction or tummy tucks to support healing, minimize discomfort, and enhance overall results. By encouraging the natural flow of lymphatic fluid, this treatment aids in reducing inflammation and accelerating recovery, making it an integral part of post-operative care.

When Is Lymphatic Massage Performed?

We recommend lymphatic massage for patients recovering from surgical procedures, particularly those involving significant tissue manipulation, such as liposuction or tummy tucks. It is most beneficial during the first month after surgery when swelling peaks and the lymph system requires support to manage fluid buildup. This therapy helps accelerate the healing process by reducing inflammation and improving circulation. While our professional sessions are highly effective, we encourage patients to perform daily self-massages to maximize benefits. Regular care during recovery can significantly enhance surgical results and improve overall comfort.
Some patients may benefit from continuing lymphatic massages for an additional 1–2 months, depending on their recovery progress and individual needs. While most swelling typically subsides within the first 30 days, ongoing massages can further support the body’s healing process and optimize surgical results. Patients may choose to schedule professional sessions or perform self-massages during this time to maintain improvements in circulation, reduce residual swelling, and enhance overall recovery.

Lymphatic Massage
Before & After

How Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage Performed?

Professional lymphatic massages, performed by our certified nursing staff, typically last 45 minutes. Using light, rhythmic pressure in specific directions, we target areas affected by surgery to reduce swelling and support the removal of excess fluid and toxins. Patients can schedule these sessions as frequently as every other day or once a week, depending on their recovery needs. Professional guidance by a massage therapist ensures the right amount of pressure is applied and proper techniques are used to maximize the benefits of each lymphatic drainage session.
Self-massage, we encourage patients to perform manual lymphatic drainage at home for 30 minutes daily during the first month after surgery. Our team provides thorough instructions on performing these massages properly, including the correct pressure and directional movements to stimulate healing. Consistency with self-massage enhances the results of our professional sessions and helps maintain progress. Some patients may continue this treatment for 1–2 months to reduce residual swelling and improve overall recovery.
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Additional Techniques to Reduce Swelling

Compression Garment Use
Wearing a compression garment reduces post-op swelling and supports optimal recovery. Patients are advised to do it for 23 hours a day during the first month following surgery, removing the garment only for bathing. This constant compression helps minimize lymph fluid retention, reduce swelling, and shape the treated areas. After the initial month, the garment should continue to be worn for 12 hours a day for an additional two months to maintain these benefits and promote smooth, even healing. Adhering to this schedule contributes to achieving the best possible surgical outcomes.
Avoidance of Exercise
Physical activity should be carefully limited during recovery to avoid increasing swelling or disrupting healing. Patients are generally advised to refrain from cardiovascular exercise for at least four weeks post-surgery and to avoid heavy lifting or other strenuous activities for six weeks. Gradually reintroducing exercise after this period ensures the body has enough time to heal correctly and minimizes the risk of complications. Following these guidelines and other swelling-reduction techniques supports a smoother recovery and enhances overall results.

How Long Does Recovery Take After Cosmetic Surgery?

First Week After Surgery
Swelling is at its peak during this time. Lymphatic massages are especially beneficial to help manage discomfort and reduce inflammation.
Swelling begins to decrease gradually, and patients start to see their results taking shape. Compression garments and consistent lymphatic massages play a significant role during this period.
Final results become visible as all residual swelling resolves and the body fully adjusts. Continuing supportive care, such as occasional lymphatic massages and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, can enhance the outcomes.
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Candidates for Lymphatic Massage

Lymphatic massage is particularly beneficial for patients recovering from medical or cosmetic procedures and those looking to support their overall health. It is recommended for individuals undergoing surgery or experiencing conditions affecting the lymphatic system. Here are the typical procedures that require lymphatic massage afterward:
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Benefits of Lymphatic Massage

Reduces Swelling and Inflammation

Lymphatic massage helps reduce swelling and inflammation, particularly after surgeries. By stimulating lymph flow, this technique encourages the removal of excess fluid and toxins (common contributors to post-operative swelling). As a result, patients experience a more comfortable recovery with less visible puffiness in the treated areas.
Our massage sessions accelerate the body’s natural healing process by improving circulation and promoting the flow of lymphatic fluid. This can shorten the recovery time after surgery, allowing patients to experience faster results. Our massages support tissue healing and help the body adapt quickly to the changes following cosmetic procedures.
Lymphatic massage promotes better immune function by stimulating the lymph nodes and encouraging the drainage of toxins and waste. This helps strengthen the body’s natural defenses, supporting overall health and enhancing its ability to recover from surgeries or other stressors. The improved lymphatic flow efficiently removes pathogens and supports a stronger immune response. It can help alleviate many health concerns and prevent diseases.
The gentle, rhythmic movements of lymphatic massage benefit the body physically and contribute to emotional well-being. This treatment helps relax the nervous system and promotes a sense of calm. Stress reduction and relaxation can support a smoother recovery by alleviating any anxiety or tension associated with the healing process.
What Makes Illuum Cosmetic Surgery Different From Others? Banner

What Makes Illuum Cosmetic Surgery Different From Others?

At Illuum Cosmetic Surgery, patients can expect a holistic approach to post-surgical care, with lymphatic massage playing a key role in supporting recovery. Led by Dr. Gregory Lakin and Dr. Ellen Ozolins, both renowned board-certified plastic surgeons with decades of experience, our team combines advanced techniques with exceptional service. We are committed to individualized care and make sure that patients receive excellent treatments that suit their needs. With a focus on ethical service, accessibility, and the highest quality results, Illuum Cosmetic Surgery provides a comprehensive recovery experience that helps patients look and feel their best throughout their healing journey.
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Katie Wells BSN, RN

Nurse Injector

She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Michigan State University and worked as an operating room nurse at Michigan Medicine for 2 years before transitioning to aesthetics. She
received her certification as a Nurse Injector, and attended further training and certification through Allergan Medical Institute. She absolutely loves being a Nurse Injector and is very passionate about
combining medicine and the creativity and artistry of aesthetics in her practice. It is extremely important to her to remain educated and up to date with the newest and best treatments and injection techniques. Her goal as an Injector is that when you sit in her chair that you feel comfortable, fully educated on your procedure, and confident and happy in your results when we are done. She loves forming connections with her patients and feels truly honored to be a part of your journey to becoming your most confident self, inside and out! She is a great listener and looks forward to creating an individualized plan to meet each of her patient’s unique goals and desires. Some of her favorite treatments include lip filler, Botox, and midface/cheek filler (but there is so much more!). When she is not injecting, you can find her trying new recipes, spending time with family, working out, gardening, or taking a long walk with her dog.

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Heidi Winkler BSN, RN

Director of Nursing & Surgical Services Leadership

Heidi’s goal is to ensure every patient has a positive experience and is satisfied with the high quality of service provided by our clinical staff. Her passion as a caregiver is to impact each person’s life in a positive way.

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Tonya Gilbert BSN, RN

PACU Nurse

Tonya has been a registered nurse for 15 years. She earned her BSN at the University of Michigan. Go Blue!

She started her career as a trauma RN in Detroit. She has been working as a recovery RN for the past 8 years. She loves being part of a team that makes a difference in people’s lives. 

Her passions include lounging with her fur babies, family, and friends, traveling, crunching, and recycling. 

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