Post Surgery Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Lymphatic drainage requires specialised training beyond general massage therapy, and post-surgical work demands an additional level of skill given the sensitivities involved in treating a healing body. Pamela has undertaken specific training in post-surgical lymphatic drainage and works within the appropriate precautions for each stage of recovery.

Why post-surgical lymphatic drainage?

Benefits can include:

• Reduced swelling and fluid retention
• Reduced bruising, and faster resolution of bruising
• Support for a smoother, more comfortable recovery
• Reduced feelings of tightness, heaviness, or stiffness in the treated area
• Support for scar tissue and skin healing as the area settles
• A more predictable recovery timeline, particularly useful if you're planning your return to work or normal activity
  

What surgeries is this suitable for?

Post-surgical lymphatic drainage supports recovery from a wide range of procedures, including:

• Cosmetic surgery: tummy tuck, liposuction, breast augmentation or reduction, BBL
• Breast reconstruction
• Gynaecological surgery: hysterectomy, C-section, laparoscopy
• Orthopaedic surgery: joint replacement, ligament repair
• Bariatric surgery

This treatment is not suitable following circulatory or vascular surgery — see contraindications below.

If your surgery type isn't listed here, get in touch and we can advise whether treatment is appropriate.

Post-Surgical Facial Lymphatic Drainage 

A gentler, face-specific version of post-surgical lymphatic drainage, designed to support recovery after facial and head/neck procedures. This service is provided by Pam, our dedicated post-surgical lymphatic massage therapist.

Why facial lymphatic drainage?

Facial tissue is delicate, and swelling or bruising after facial surgery can be more visible and slower to settle than elsewhere on the body. Facial lymphatic drainage uses light, precise techniques suited to this area to help support a smoother, more comfortable recovery.

Benefits can include:

• Reduced facial swelling and puffiness
• Reduced bruising
• Support for more comfortable healing in the treated area
• A more predictable timeline for returning to normal activities and social settings

What procedures is this suitable for?

• Facelift / neck lift
• Rhinoplasty
• Jaw surgery
• Other facial or head & neck procedures
  

Your Discovery Call

Every new post-surgical client starts with a 30-minute discovery call with Pamela. This 30 minute appointment is $70, and available via telehealth or in person.

This covers your surgical history, surgeon clearance if applicable, recovery stage, and a discussion of the right treatment plan and schedule for you. The $70 comes off the cost of your first treatment, so this is not an extra cost if you book in for treatment.

Book ahead of your surgery

You don't need to wait until after your operation to get in touch. Many clients book their discovery call and treatment schedule before their surgery date, so their recovery care is organised in advance and there's no scrambling to find appointments while you're healing.

Pricing

This is a specialised style of treatment, requiring extensive training and study, therefore pricing for this service reflects the high level of skill required to perform these treatments.

Private health rebates are available, claimable under remedial massage services.

Contraindications

The general contraindications for lymphatic drainage apply — active infection, malignant tumours or active cancer, DVT, serious heart conditions, and kidney or liver dysfunction.

For post-surgical treatment specifically:

• Not suitable following circulatory or vascular surgery
• Treatment timing needs to match your stage of healing — too soon after surgery can be inappropriate
• Surgeon clearance may be required before treatment begins, depending on your procedure
• Treatment should be avoided directly over open wounds or unhealed incisions

Your discovery call will confirm you're an appropriate candidate before anything is booked.

FAQs

When should I start post-surgical lymphatic drainage?
This depends on your surgery type and your surgeon's advice. Pamela will confirm appropriate timing for your procedure — body or facial — during your discovery call, and won't book treatment before it's safe to do so.

Do I need clearance from my surgeon?
For most procedures, yes. Pam will let you know during your discovery call if surgeon clearance is needed before treatment can begin.

How many sessions will I need?
This varies depending on your surgery and recovery. Some clients need a handful of sessions in the first few weeks, others benefit from a longer course. Pam will put together a treatment plan during your discovery call.

Can I book my discovery call before my surgery date?
Yes — in fact we'd encourage it. Booking ahead means your recovery care is organised before you need it, rather than trying to arrange appointments while you're healing.

Does the discovery call have to be in person?
No, it can be done via telehealth or in person, whichever suits you.

Is post-surgical lymphatic drainage covered by private health insurance?

It's claimable under remedial massage services with most funds — check with your provider for your specific level of cover.

Does this replace my surgeon's post-op instructions?
No. Post-surgical lymphatic drainage is complementary to your medical care, not a replacement for it. Always follow your surgeon's instructions and let Pam know of any restrictions you've been given.

Will treatment be painful?
No — lymphatic drainage is a light-touch technique, not deep tissue work. Around a healing surgical site, or on facial tissue after facial surgery, it's approached with extra care and adjusted to your comfort.

Meet Your Massage Therapist

Pamela Machado

Remedial Massage Therapist (Diploma of Remedial Massage)

As well as her massage qualifications, Pam also has qualifications in beauty and business, and has done further study including myofascial cupping and advanced lymphatic drainage techniques.

Pamela has a special interest in treating headaches, pre and post plastic surgery management, stress/anxiety management and manual lymphatic drainage. Pam’s treatment style is very holistic and she aims to improve the overall wellbeing of her clients. 

Outside of work, Pam loves to go hiking with friends, getting creative with painting and pottery and loves a boogie on the dance floor!

Pamela’s goals are to travel more, as well improve her professional knowledge to be able to provide the best treatments for her clients, and contribute to the betterment of the massage industry.

Deep Tissue Massage

Strong, targeted relief for tight and overworked muscles

If you prefer a massage that really gets into the muscles, deep tissue massage is designed for you.