Healing After Umbilical Hernia Surgery with Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Before and after lymphatic drainage massage following umbilical hernia surgery. Notice the visible 60% reduction in swelling by day six post-op.
When my husband had his umbilical hernia surgery, I wanted to support his recovery as naturally and effectively as possible. We started lymphatic drainage massage on day three after surgery, keeping it very gentle to stimulate the lymphatic system and help the body reduce swelling and inflammation.
Even though many people think of lymphatic drainage only for cosmetic surgeries like tummy tucks or liposuction, it’s incredibly helpful for medical surgeries too—like hernia repairs, C-sections, joint replacements, or any procedure that causes swelling and fluid retention.
I’m Monica Skalsky, Licensed Massage Therapist (CAMTC #33056) with over 30 years of hands-on experience specializing in post-surgical and lymphatic drainage massage. Over the years, I’ve worked with thousands of clients recovering from both cosmetic and medical procedures—helping them heal faster, reduce swelling, and feel comfortable in their bodies again. My practice, Wrthit, has earned over 30 5.0 stars on Google from clients who value expert care, compassion, and real results. Every session is customized to support your recovery, whether you’re healing from a tummy tuck, liposuction, or in this case, an umbilical hernia surgery.
Visible Results After Just a Few Sessions
I took the first photo on day three, before beginning lymphatic drainage. You can see the abdominal swelling and tightness around the belly button area.
By day six, after two lymphatic drainage sessions, there was a clear change—his swelling had gone down by about 60%. The skin looked softer, the pressure had eased, and he was noticeably more comfortable.
Lymphatic drainage didn’t do all the work alone—it was part of a larger recovery routine we followed carefully:
High-protein meals before and after surgery to help repair tissue.
Lots of water every day (close to a gallon) to keep the lymph system moving.
Short daily walks, adding a little distance each day to promote circulation.
Plenty of rest and avoiding unnecessary strain on the abdominal area.
This combination made a huge difference in how quickly he started feeling like himself again.
Why Lymphatic Drainage Massage Works for Any Surgery
After any type of surgery, your body is working hard to heal. Inflammation and swelling are part of that process, but sometimes the lymphatic system gets overloaded and can’t drain fluid efficiently.
That’s where manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) comes in—it helps the body do what it’s already trying to do naturally.
Some of the key benefits include:
Reducing swelling and fluid buildup
Helping prevent seroma or fibrosis
Supporting gentle detoxification
Improving immune function
Promoting a smoother, more comfortable recovery
It’s a calm, light-pressure technique designed to move lymph fluid—not deep tissue. That’s why it’s safe and effective for post-surgical recovery when performed by someone trained in post-op lymphatic drainage massage.
Recovery Is for Everyone
Seeing my husband’s results reminded me that lymphatic drainage massage isn’t just for people recovering from cosmetic surgery—it’s for anyone healing from surgery. The lymphatic system plays a vital role in how well and how quickly your body bounces back.
If you’ve had surgery recently (cosmetic or medical), and you’re feeling puffy, tight, or uncomfortable, lymphatic drainage can help.
It’s gentle, relaxing, and effective—designed to help your body recover faster and more comfortably.
Cities We Serve
Wrthit provides mobile lymphatic drainage massage and post-surgical recovery sessions throughout Southern California, including Temecula, Murrieta, Wildomar, Fallbrook, Menifee, Riverside, and Laguna Niguel.
Book your post-surgical lymphatic drainage massage and experience the difference for yourself.
Because healing well isn’t just for the lucky—it’s for the ones who take care of their body every step of the way.
You Are Wrthit