Quick Facts
- When to start: 24-48 hours post-surgery (with clearance)
- How many sessions: 10-20+ over 6-8 weeks
- Cost in Medellín: $20-105/session (vs. $100-150 USA)
- Benefit: Reduces swelling 40-60% faster
Surgery disrupts your lymphatic system—the network that drains fluid from your tissues. Without proper drainage, you're looking at prolonged swelling, hardened lumps, and potentially permanent fibrosis (lumpy, uneven skin). Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) accelerates your body's natural healing process.
What This Guide Covers
Why Lymphatic Massage is Critical
During surgery, lymphatic vessels are disrupted. This causes fluid to accumulate in the tissues—the swelling you see after any procedure. Your body will eventually process this fluid on its own, but it takes 3-6 months without intervention.
What Happens Without MLD
- • Prolonged swelling that lasts months longer than necessary
- • Hardened lumps and bumps under the skin
- • Fibrosis—permanent lumpy, uneven texture
- • Seromas—pockets of fluid that may require drainage
- • Delayed results—you won't see your final shape for much longer
Important
Fibrosis can be permanent. Once scar tissue forms under the skin, it's very difficult to resolve. The time to prevent it is immediately after surgery—not after you notice problems.
Specific Benefits
Physical Benefits
- ✓ Reduces swelling 40-60% faster
- ✓ Prevents fibrosis (lumpy skin)
- ✓ Speeds tissue healing
- ✓ Reduces bruising
- ✓ Pain relief through improved drainage
Additional Benefits
- ✓ Removes toxins from anesthesia
- ✓ Flushes medication byproducts
- ✓ See results sooner
- ✓ Smoother final contours
- ✓ Relaxation and stress relief
Recommended Schedule
| Phase | Frequency | Session Length |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1-14 | Daily to every other day | 60-90 minutes |
| Weeks 2-4 | 2-3 times per week | 60 minutes |
| Weeks 4-8 | 1-2 times per week | 60 minutes |
| After 8 weeks | As needed | 60 minutes |
Total Sessions
Plan for 10-20+ sessions total. Most patients do 5-10 sessions in Medellín before flying home, then continue with a therapist in their home city.
Finding Therapists in Medellín
Pricing in Medellín
Sessions range from COP 80,000-420,000 ($20-$105 USD) compared to $100-$150 in the US.
- • Budget option: ~$20-30/session
- • Mid-range: ~$40-60/session
- • Premium/specialty: ~$80-105/session
Recovery Houses
Many recovery houses include massage sessions or have partnerships with therapists. This is the easiest option.
Surgeon Recommendations
Your surgeon or their patient coordinator can recommend trusted therapists they work with regularly.
Specialty Spas
Amatsu Spa, CentroSthetic, 5 Elementos Spa & Wellness Center. Look for "post-quirúrgico" services.
Techniques Available
- Vodder Method: Traditional technique—light, rhythmic pumping motions
- Colombian-style MLD: More dynamic and firm than traditional Vodder
- Combination therapy: May include ultrasound, wood therapy, or vacuum therapy
Continuing Care at Home
US Certifications to Look For
- ✓ CLT — Certified Lymphedema Therapist
- ✓ CMLDT — Certified Manual Lymph Drainage Therapist
- ✓ LANA certified — Lymphology Association of North America
- ✓ Vodder or Klose trained
Search the AMTA (American Massage Therapy Association) directory for "MLD" or "post-surgical massage" in your area. Call ahead to confirm they have experience with plastic surgery patients.
The Bottom Line
Lymphatic massage isn't a luxury—it's essential for optimal results. Budget for 10-20 sessions starting immediately after surgery. The cost savings in Medellín make it easy to get proper care during your recovery stay, and you'll need to continue when you get home. Don't skip this step.