Lymphatic Drainage Massage in Syracuse, NY

What Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

Your lymphatic system moves fluid through your body and filters it through small glands called lymph nodes. Lymphatic drainage massage uses slow, gentle, rhythmic strokes that work with that natural flow and guide fluid toward the nodes. The pressure is much lighter than a regular massage, because the goal is to move fluid just under the skin, not to work deep into muscle.

Lymphatic massage, lymphatic drainage massage and manual lymphatic drainage all describe the same technique. Our therapists blend methods, working primarily from the Vodder method with Chikly techniques, and adjust each session to what your body needs that day.

Who Lymphatic Drainage Massage Helps

• Recovery after surgery: swelling (edema) after liposuction, a BBL, a tummy tuck, breast surgery, joint replacement or any procedure that leaves lasting swelling.
• Lipedema: lymphatic drainage is a cornerstone of conservative lipedema care. It does not reduce or treat the lipedema fat itself, but it can ease the fluid retention, secondary swelling and tissue pressure that often come with it.
• Puffiness and fluid retention: a lighter, calming session for when you feel heavy or swollen.
• Longer-term concerns: some patients come for several months of treatment as part of a plan with their doctor.
• Maintenance: some patients book monthly to keep feeling their best.

Post-Surgical Lymphatic Drainage

Swelling is a normal part of healing after surgery, and gentle lymphatic drainage can help you feel more comfortable while you recover. Katy Woods, LMT, MLD-C, is certified in post-operative lymphatic drainage and consults with our other lymphatic therapists on post-surgical care as needed.

Most patients start about 2 to 6 weeks after surgery, but your surgeon’s guidance on timing comes first. Tell us your surgery date when you book, wear your compression garment to your appointment, and bring any instructions from your surgeon. Your initial appointment is 75 minutes, so your therapist has time to review your recovery and plan your sessions.

How We Keep Lymphatic Drainage Safe

Every lymphatic session starts with a health history at intake. We like to work as part of your medical team, so we recommend letting your doctor or surgeon know you are booking lymphatic drainage.

• A doctor’s note is not required for most patients.
• If you have a cancer diagnosis, including cancers of the lymph system, we need a note from your doctor before your first session, so your oncology team is part of your care.
• We do not treat lymphedema. Lymphedema needs care from a lymphedema specialist, so we refer those patients out.
• Please do not book if you have an active infection, a fever, or a known or suspected blood clot.
• If you have had lymph nodes removed, especially a sentinel node, lymphatic drainage may not be right for you. Your therapist makes that decision, ideally together with your healthcare team.

What to Expect at Your Session

Before your session

Fill out your intake forms online using the link in your confirmation email, or arrive about 10 minutes early to finish them here. Your therapist will ask about your health history, any recent surgery and what you want help with.

During your session

The work is light, slow and rhythmic. Your therapist usually starts near the lymph nodes closest to the area being treated, then works outward. Most patients find it calm and relaxing. Speak up anytime if you need to change position.

After your session

Take your time getting up, and follow any instructions from your surgeon. Let your therapist know how you felt, so your next session can build on it.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

It depends on why you are coming in. Some patients come only a handful of times after surgery. Longer-term conditions can take several months of treatment, and some patients come monthly for maintenance. Your therapist will suggest a plan and how often to come back, and adjust it as you go.

How Long Is a Session and What Does It Cost?

• Initial appointment (75 minutes): $155
• 30 minutes: $95
• 60 minutes: $135
• 90 minutes: $170
• 120 minutes: $215

The $155 initial appointment applies to both regular and post-surgical lymphatic drainage. The initial appointment is 75 minutes for every patient, so your therapist has time to review your health history and goals.

We accept HSA and FSA cards and provide superbills on request. Monthly members can use their membership credits and pay the small difference. See our massage memberships.

Your Lymphatic Drainage Therapists

Lymphatic drainage at Hand in Health is offered by Katy, Andria, Brian, Terry, Sarah and Renee. All are trained in blended lymphatic techniques, primarily the Vodder method along with Chikly techniques. Katy Woods, LMT, MLD-C, is certified in manual lymphatic drainage and post-operative lymphatic drainage. When you book online, you will only see therapists trained for this service.

Also Try Lymphatic Facial and Sinus Massage

Lymphatic facial and sinus massage is a gentle 30-minute session for your head, face, neck and shoulders, using light lymphatic strokes and small facial cups. Patients often book it for sinus pressure or head and neck tension.