Post-Mastectomy Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Gentle, Supportive Care After Breast Cancer Surgery
Undergoing a mastectomy — whether recent or years ago — is a deeply personal experience. Your body has been through a lot. Healing doesn’t end once the incision closes.
I offer compassionate, specialized Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) for women beginning as early as two weeks post-surgery, and also for those who had surgery months or even years ago and are still experiencing discomfort, tightness, swelling, or scar-related restrictions
When Can You Start?
Many women are surprised to learn that lymphatic work can begin as early as two weeks after surgery, once cleared by your surgeon.
Receiving MLD in the early stages can:
-
Support the natural healing process
-
Help reduce post-surgical swelling
-
Minimize the development of fibrosis
-
Improve scar mobility
-
Encourage healthy lymphatic circulation
Early intervention can make a meaningful difference in long-term tissue health.
That said, it is never “too late.” Even if your mastectomy was years ago, MLD and gentle lymphatic drainage and fascial work can still improve comfort, mobility, and tissue softness.
Common Post-Mastectomy Concerns
After breast cancer surgery — and sometimes chemotherapy or radiation — women may experience:
-
Restricted shoulder and arm mobility
-
Tightness across the chest or ribcage
-
Scar tissue and fibrosis
-
Axillary cording (tight, rope-like bands under the skin)
-
Swelling in the arm, breast, or trunk
-
Lymphedema
My approach is designed to gently address these concerns while supporting your overall well-being.
Lymphedema Support
When lymph nodes are removed or radiated, the lymphatic system may struggle to transport fluid efficiently.
Lymphedema is often a chronic condition — but it can be managed effectively.
Support may include:
-
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
-
Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT), when appropriate
-
Compression garment guidance
-
Limb measurements to track changes in volume
-
Education on skin care and self-management
-
Decongestive and breathing exercises
-
Self-massage instruction
In cases where swelling is more significant, a structured reduction phase using compression bandaging may be recommended before transitioning to maintenance care.
Follow-up appointments help ensure swelling remains stable and compression remains appropriate.
Techniques That May Be Used
Depending on your needs, your personalized treatment plan may include:
-
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
-
Scar and fibrosis mobilization
-
Gentle fascial work for shoulder, neck, and chest tension
-
Education and self-care guidance
Every session is adapted to your stage of healing, energy level, and comfort.
A Personalized Approach
Your first appointment includes a thorough assessment and your initial treatment. From there, we create a plan specifically to you.
Therapy frequency and duration vary depending on:
-
Whether you are early post-operative or years post-surgery
-
The presence and stage of lymphedema
-
Scar mobility and fibrosis
-
Your personal healing goals
You Deserve Gentle, Skilled Support
Healing after mastectomy is not just physical — it is emotional, too.
My treatment space is one of safety, respect, and compassion, whether you are two weeks post-surgery or ten years post-mastectomy.
