Lymphatic Drainage Massage in Pretoria East
Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle, specialised treatment that encourages the movement of lymph fluid, helping to reduce swelling and fluid retention and support recovery after surgery.
At our Maroelana clinic, lymphatic drainage is performed with clinical care and precision, whether you’re recovering from a procedure, managing swelling, or simply feeling heavy and puffy.
What Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
Lymphatic drainage (also called manual lymph drainage, MLD or lymph massage) is a light-pressure technique that stimulates the movement of lymph fluid through the lymphatic system.
Unlike deep tissue or remedial massage, it works close to the surface of the skin with slow, rhythmic movements, encouraging:
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Improved lymph flow
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Reduced fluid retention
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Less swelling and heaviness
When lymph flow slows down after surgery, injury, illness or long periods of inactivity, fluid can build up and cause swelling, heaviness and discomfort. Lymphatic drainage helps restore healthy movement.
Lymphatic Drainage After Surgery
Lymphatic drainage is widely recommended after cosmetic and medical procedures, including:
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Liposuction and lipo-sculpting
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Tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) and BBLs
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Breast surgery
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Orthopaedic surgery, such as knee or hip procedures
After surgery, gentle drainage can help reduce swelling, ease tightness and discomfort, and support the body’s recovery process.
When to start: we usually begin 3 to 5 days after surgery, once your surgeon has given the go-ahead.
How many sessions: most post-op clients book 3 to 5 sessions over 2 weeks, and your therapist will advise based on your recovery.
Read more: How can Manual Lymph Drainage after Liposuction improve my results?
Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Clients may benefit from lymphatic drainage massage if they are experiencing:
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Swelling or fluid retention
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A feeling of heaviness in the body or limbs
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Poor circulation
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Post-surgical swelling (where appropriate)
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Recovery after illness or injury
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Immune system support
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General detoxification support
Many clients report feeling lighter, less swollen, and deeply relaxed after treatment.
Your session starts with a short assessment and screening to make sure lymphatic drainage is safe and suitable for you. The treatment itself is:
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Gentle and non-painful
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Performed with light, rhythmic movements
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Slow and methodical
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Deeply calming to the nervous system
What to Expect During Your Session
How Lymphatic Drainage Massage Differs from Deep Tissue Massage
Unlike Deep Tissue or Medi Massage lymphatic drainage:
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Does not use deep pressure
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Focuses on fluid movement rather than muscle release
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Works close to the surface of the skin
This makes it ideal if you need a gentler, recovery-focused treatment.
Who Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage Suitable For?
Lymphatic drainage may be helpful if you’re experiencing:
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Swelling or fluid retention
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Heaviness in the body or limbs
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Post-surgical swelling (with your surgeon’s clearance)
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Recovery after illness or injury
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Swelling or puffiness during pregnancy (see Pregnancy Lymphatic Drainage)
Many clients report feeling lighter, less swollen and deeply relaxed after treatment.
Please note: clearance from a medical professional may be required in certain cases.
Lymphatic Drainage FAQs
Does lymphatic drainage massage hurt?
How soon after liposuction can I have lymphatic drainage?
What should I do after my session?
No. It uses very light pressure and is one of the gentlest treatments we offer. Most clients find it deeply relaxing.
Usually from 3 - 5 days after surgery, once your surgeon has cleared you
Drink plenty of water, keep moving gently, and wear your compression garment if your surgeon has prescribed one.
Do I need a doctor's note?
For most clients, no referral is needed. We’ll ask you to complete a health questionnaire before your first session, and your therapist will go through it with you.
We will ask for your doctor’s or surgeon’s go-ahead if you:
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Have recently had surgery
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Have a history of blood clots, or take medication to prevent them
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Take blood-thinning medication, or have a bleeding disorder
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Have a chronic heart condition
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Have chronic kidney disease
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Have active cancer or are receiving cancer treatment
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Have chronic venous insufficiency (poor circulation in the leg veins, often with varicose veins or swollen lower legs)
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Have venous stasis dermatitis (discoloured, itchy or scaly skin on the lower legs caused by poor circulation)
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Have uncontrolled high or low blood pressure
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Have an overactive thyroid
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Have been diagnosed with lymphoedema
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Have a high-risk pregnancy or any pregnancy complications
Lymphatic drainage is not suitable, and you should see a doctor first, if you have:
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A suspected or diagnosed blood clot (DVT). Pain, swelling, warmth or redness in one calf or leg needs urgent medical attention.
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A fever, or feel generally unwell with an infection
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A skin infection, such as cellulitis, or red, hot, painful swelling
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Sudden, unexplained swelling
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A current cold/flu
If you’re unsure, contact us before booking and we’ll let you know whether clearance is needed.
Is lymphatic drainage safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Lymphatic drainage is safe for most healthy pregnancies when it’s adapted correctly, and it can help ease swollen feet, ankles and hands. See our [Pregnancy Lymphatic Drainage] page for more.
Important: sudden swelling, especially in the face or hands, together with a headache, changes in your vision or high blood pressure, can be a sign of pre-eclampsia. This needs urgent medical attention, and lymphatic drainage is not suitable until your doctor or midwife has assessed you. If you notice these signs, contact your doctor or midwife straight away rather than booking a massage.
We screen every pregnant client before treatment and may ask for your doctor’s or midwife’s go-ahead.
How many sessions will I need?
After surgery: most clients need 3 to 5 sessions over about 2 weeks. Your therapist will adjust this based on how your body responds and how your recovery is progressing.
For general swelling or fluid retention: we start with 3 sessions, one week apart. After that, your therapist will review your progress against your goals and discern the next course of action.
Why Choose Medissage for Lymphatic Drainage in Pretoria
At Medissage, lymphatic drainage massage is delivered with:
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A clinical, professional approach
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A health screening before every first treatment
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Therapists trained in manual lymph drainage
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Experience supporting post-surgical recovery
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A calm, hygienic and supportive environment
We put your safety, comfort and recovery first.
Whether you’re recovering from surgery or dealing with swelling and fluid retention, our therapists will tailor each session to your body and your goals. Book online, or WhatsApp us if you’d like to check first whether lymphatic drainage is right for you.
📍 32 Nuwe Hoop Street, Maroelana, Pretoria
📞 061 509 7256
💬 Online & WhatsApp bookings available