Frequently Asked
Q: What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
A: Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a gentle, specialized hands-on therapy that stimulates the movement of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. This light-touch technique helps reduce swelling, support the immune system, promote healing, and encourage the body's natural removal of excess fluid and waste, leaving you feeling more comfortable and refreshed.
Q: How is MLD different than a massage?
A: Although MLD and traditional massage both use hands-on techniques, they serve very different purposes. Massage is designed to work deeper muscles to relieve tension, improve flexibility, and reduce muscle soreness. In contrast, MLD uses a light-touch technique to stimulate the lymphatic system, helping move excess fluid, reduce swelling, promote healing, and support the body's natural immune function.
Q: Why should I see a certified lymphedema therapist?
A: When it comes to manual lymphatic drainage, proper training matters. A Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) has completed advanced education in the anatomy and function of the lymphatic system, safe manual lymphatic drainage techniques, compression therapy, scar management, and the treatment of swelling. A CLT understands how to tailor treatment to your individual needs while recognizing when modifications or referrals may be necessary. This specialized training helps ensure your treatment is both safe and effective, promoting optimal healing, reducing swelling, minimizing scar tissue formation, and supporting the body's natural recovery process.
Q: Can I have lymphatic drainage when I'm pregnant?
A: Yes! Each session is tailored to your stage of pregnancy ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the treatment. Prenatal lymphatic drainage is performed using pregnancy-safe positioning and is recommended after the first trimester. If you have a high-risk pregnancy or specific medical concerns, please consult your healthcare provider before scheduling treatment.
Q: When should I avoid lymphatic drainage?
A: MLD is a gentle and safe treatment for many individuals; however, there are certain conditions where treatment may not be appropriate. Contraindications include acute infection, fever, active blood clots (deep vein thrombosis), and congestive heart failure. Depending on your medical history, other precautions or modifications may also apply.
Your safety is our top priority. A thorough medical history will be reviewed during your first appointment to ensure manual lymphatic drainage is appropriate for you. If you have questions about a specific medical condition or whether treatment is right for you, please feel free to contact us by email or discuss your concerns during your session.
Q: Can I receive treatment while I have drains?
A: Yes. When performed by a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, MLD is safe and beneficial while surgical drains are still in place. In fact, beginning MLD early in the recovery process can help reduce swelling, minimize discomfort, support healthy lymphatic flow, and encourage your body's natural healing process.
Treatment is always adapted to your stage of recovery and performed using specialized techniques that avoid disrupting your surgical sites or drains. Every session is tailored to your individual procedure, healing progress, and your surgeon's recommendations to help promote a safe and comfortable recovery.
Q: What makes Island Lymphatics different?
A: Island Lymphatics is owned and operated by a licensed occupational therapist and certified lymphedema therapist credentialed in advanced MLD-management of post plastic surgery procedures.
As a licensed healthcare professional, an OT has advanced training that allows them to assess, treat and manage a wider range of conditions affecting healing, swelling and function. A Certified Lymphedema Therapist has specialized training in the lymphatic system, post-operative rehabilitation, lymphedema management, compression garment fitting, scar management, and Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), the gold standard treatment for lymphedema.
This advanced training allows treatment to be safely adapted throughout your recovery, including care while surgical drains are in place. We are able to provide guidance on compression garments, monitoring for signs of complications, and collaboration with your healthcare providers when appropriate.
Q: What should I expect at my first visit?
A: Your first visit at Island Lymphatics is designed to be both therapeutic and educational. We begin with a brief discussion about your health history, current concerns, surgical history (if applicable), and your goals for treatment.
Unlike a traditional spa experience, the lights will remain on during your session. This allows for clear communication, proper assessment of the tissues, and ongoing education throughout your treatment. Discussion may occur as needed to ensure your comfort, answer questions, and help you understand the treatment being provided and what you can do at home to help maintain your results.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is most effective when performed on bare skin. You may disrobe to your comfort level, and professional draping will be provided at all times to ensure your privacy and dignity are respected throughout the session.
Depending on the area being treated, treatment may be performed in a variety of positions, including sitting, standing, laying on your back, side or stomach (if tolerated and appropriate). Your therapist will guide you into the positions that are safest and most effective for your specific treatment.
MLD is a gentle, rhythmic technique—not a deep tissue massage. Most clients find it deeply relaxing and notice a feeling of lightness, reduced swelling, and improved comfort following treatment.
Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: At this time, services are offered on a self-pay basis and insurance is not accepted. Payment is due at the time of service. If requested, a detailed receipt (superbill) can be provided for you to submit to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Coverage and reimbursement are determined by your individual insurance plan.