In this guide
Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle technique, done by hand, that helps lymph flow and brings down swelling where fluid builds up: a limb, a scar, an operated abdomen. Done by a trained physiotherapist, it is especially useful after surgery, for heavy legs or for lymphoedema. At home, it saves trips on the days when you are swollen, sore or tight in a compression garment.
When is it useful?
It is prescribed by a doctor or surgeon when it is part of a treatment. It is often suggested:
- after surgery, cosmetic or not: liposuction, tummy tuck, breast surgery, caesarean, joint replacement, to bring down swelling and soften the operated area;
- for lymphoedema, for example of the arm after breast cancer surgery with lymph nodes removed (axillary clearance), or of the leg;
- for heavy, swollen legs, especially with varicose veins or during pregnancy, with the doctor’s agreement;
- for swelling after a sprain or a fracture.
What a session looks like
The patient lies down comfortably. The physio uses very gentle, slow, rhythmic pressure that follows the path of the lymph: they often start away from the swollen area, near the lymph nodes, to « open the way », then work towards it. The session doesn’t hurt, and is often relaxing.
A session usually lasts 30 to 45 minutes. All it takes is a bed or sofa to lie on. Depending on the case, the physio adds bandaging, exercises and advice on skin care and the compression garment.
After liposuction or a tummy tuck
After body-contouring surgery, drainage helps bring down swelling, reduce hard areas and soften the tissues. It starts when the surgeon allows it, often in the days or first weeks after the operation, and the surgeon says how many sessions to have, often several a week for a few weeks.
Drainage adds to the compression garment; it doesn’t replace it: keep wearing it as the surgeon asked.
Lymphoedema: a complete treatment
For lymphoedema, drainage is part of a broader treatment: bandaging to reduce the limb’s swelling, then a compression sleeve or stocking to keep the result, exercises and skin care. The physio looking after it should be trained in this treatment: on Kinezy, look for « Manual lymphatic drainage » in the profile’s specialties.
Lymphoedema is managed over time: the aim is to reduce the volume, keep it stable, and teach the patient the moves to do themselves.
What drainage doesn’t do
Lymphatic drainage doesn’t make you lose weight and doesn’t « eliminate » fat or « toxins »: it helps excess fluid drain away. It doesn’t replace compression, physical activity or the doctor’s treatment.
When not to have it
Red, hot, swollen skin with fever (an infection such as cellulitis), or a swollen, hard, painful calf (a blood clot) need a doctor quickly, not drainage. If you suddenly become breathless or have chest pain, call emergency services at once (15 or 141).
Some heart or kidney conditions, or cancer under treatment, can also rule it out: the doctor decides whether it is possible.
Price and reimbursement
Each physio sets their own rate and tells you on WhatsApp before the first session. When prescribed by a doctor for lymphoedema or after surgery, drainage can be covered by AMO (CNSS or CNOPS) or your insurer, depending on your cover; after cosmetic surgery, you often pay for it yourself. You need the prescription and a care sheet filled in by the physio.
This guide gives general information. It doesn’t replace the advice of your doctor or physio, who know your situation.