After liposuction, a BBL, a tummy tuck or other cosmetic surgery, many surgeons recommend lymphatic massage to help with swelling and bruising. You can have it at home: a licensed therapist comes to you with a table, linens and supplies, so you don't have to travel while you're sore.
Bigtoe offers post-operative lymphatic massage at home and in hotels in 40+ US cities, including Miami, Houston and Los Angeles. This guide covers what to expect and how to choose a therapist.
When to start
Follow your surgeon's guidance. Many patients start within the first days to weeks after surgery and book a series of sessions rather than one. When you book with Bigtoe, you share your surgery date so the session falls in a safe window.
What a session involves
- Feather-light strokes that avoid strain on healing tissue.
- Clearing the main drainage areas first, then working toward the treated areas.
- Gentle pumping movements that move fluid without pressing on incisions.
- Most sessions run 60 to 90 minutes. Wear or bring your compression garment as your surgeon directs.
What a massage therapist does not do
Post-op lymphatic massage is not medical drainage. Therapists do not treat open wounds, remove fluid, or handle surgical drains. If you have an open incision, a fever or signs of infection, contact your surgeon instead of booking.
How to choose a therapist
- Ask about experience with your procedure, not only a certificate. Training programs vary widely.
- Confirm a state massage license and liability insurance.
- Expect a gentle touch. Post-op work should never be deep or painful.
- Plan for a series. Booking the same therapist for each session keeps your care consistent.
Booking with Bigtoe
Choose Post-Op Lymphatic Massage, set the time and place, and Bigtoe sends a therapist who has opted in to post-op work. Prices are shown before you book, including the standard 20% tip. You can request the same therapist for follow-up sessions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get lymphatic drainage massage at home after lipo?
Yes. Bigtoe sends licensed therapists who do post-op lymphatic massage to your home or hotel, with everything they need for the session.
How many sessions will I need?
It varies by procedure and by surgeon. Many patients book a series over the first few weeks; ask your surgeon what they recommend.
Is post-op lymphatic massage painful?
It should not be. The technique uses very light pressure. Tell your therapist right away if anything hurts.
Where is at-home post-op lymphatic massage available?
Bigtoe offers it in 40+ US cities, including Miami, Houston, Los Angeles, Dallas, Atlanta, New York and Washington, DC.