How Many Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage Sessions Do You Need After Cosmetic Surgery?

Feb 5

If you’ve recently undergone cosmetic surgery, you may have heard about Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage as part of your recovery process. This specialized massage technique is designed to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and help your body eliminate excess fluids. But how many sessions do you actually need? Let’s break it down.

The Importance of Lymphatic Drainage After Surgery

Cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, tummy tucks, Brazilian butt lifts (BBL), and facelifts can cause post-operative swelling and fluid retention. This is a natural response as your body heals, but excess fluid buildup can lead to prolonged swelling, discomfort, and in some cases, complications such as fibrosis or seromas.

Brazilian lymphatic drainage (BLD) is a gentle, rhythmic massage technique that stimulates the lymphatic system to move fluids more efficiently. By doing so, it can:

Reduce post-surgical swelling
Minimize bruising
Prevent fibrosis (lumps and hardened tissue under the skin)
Speed up the healing process
Improve overall contouring results

How Many Sessions Are Recommended?

The number of lymphatic drainage sessions needed varies based on the type of surgery, individual healing rates, and your surgeon’s recommendations. However, general guidelines include:

Liposuction & BBL:

First 2 weeks: 2-3 sessions per week
Weeks 3-6: 1-2 sessions per week
Total: 10-12 sessions on average

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty):

First 3 weeks: 3 sessions per week
Weeks 4-6: 1-2 sessions per week
Total: 12-15 sessions on average

Facelift & Neck Lift:

First 2 weeks: 2 sessions per week
Weeks 3-4: 1 session per week
Total: 6-8 sessions on average

These numbers can vary depending on how your body responds to treatment, the severity of swelling, and any post-surgical complications that arise. Your massage therapist and surgeon can adjust the frequency based on your progress.

Signs You May Need More Sessions

While these general recommendations work for most people, some may benefit from additional sessions if they experience:

Persistent swelling beyond six weeks
Excessive fluid retention
Hardening of tissues (fibrosis)
Slow healing or discomfort

If you notice any of these signs, consult your surgeon or massage therapist for an extended treatment plan.

The Bottom Line

Brazilian lymphatic drainage is a powerful tool in post-surgical recovery, helping you heal faster and achieve optimal results. Most people require between 6-15 sessions, with more frequent treatments in the first few weeks post-op. Always follow your surgeon’s recommendations and listen to your body to ensure the best outcome.

Are you considering lymphatic drainage after surgery? Schedule a consultation with a qualified therapist to create a personalized recovery plan!

Monica Skalsky