1. What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?

MLD is a gentle, clinical massage technique that stimulates the lymphatic system to reduce swelling, support detoxification, and improve recovery - especially after surgery or injury.

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2. How soon after surgery can I start MLD?

Most clients can begin MLD within 48-72 hours of surgery, provided there are no open wounds or active infection. In some cases, particularly after breast surgery, liposuction, or abdominal procedures - we can start even earlier. The optimal timing depends on your specific procedure, and Mei will advise you based on your surgeon's notes and recovery stage. If in doubt, contact us before your surgery date and we'll plan together.

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3. When should I start lymphatic drainage after surgery?

This depends on your procedure and surgeon’s advice, but many clients begin once medically cleared. Early treatment can significantly improve recovery outcomes.

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4. Do you work with surgeons or receive referrals?

Yes. Treatments are often used alongside surgical care, and many clients are referred by surgeons for post-operative recovery support.

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5. Does lymphatic drainage hurt after surgery?

No. MLD is one of the gentlest forms of therapeutic touch. The pressure used is very light (lighter than you might expect from a massage), and the movements are slow and rhythmic. Most clients find sessions deeply relaxing, even in the early post-operative period. If there is any discomfort, Mei will adjust the technique immediately.

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6. How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your procedure and how your body responds. For most cosmetic or orthopaedic surgeries, clients see significant improvement in 3-6 sessions. For more complex recoveries, such as cancer-related surgery, mastectomy, or significant swelling - a longer programme is typically recommended.

Mei will give you a realistic expectation at your initial consultation, and you'll never be booked for sessions you don't need.

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7. Is MLD the same as a regular massage?

No. Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a specialist clinical technique quite different from standard massage. It uses very light, rhythmic movements that follow the specific pathways of the lymphatic system, rather than the deeper pressure used in remedial or relaxation massage. It requires specific certification (Mei holds full Dr. Vodder MLD credentials) which is the international gold standard in this field.

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8. What should I expect during an MLD session?

Sessions are quiet, gentle, and deeply relaxing. You'll lie on a treatment table while Mei works through a precise sequence of light-pressure movements across your lymphatic pathways. Most people feel a sense of deep calm during treatment, and some notice increased fluid movement (more frequent urination) in the hours following a session - this is a normal and positive sign that the lymphatic system is active. Sessions typically run 60-90 minutes.

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9. Can lymphatic drainage help with lymphedema?

Yes. It is commonly used to help manage swelling, improve lymph flow, and support long-term symptom management for lymphedema.

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10. Can it help with lipedema?

Yes. It can help reduce discomfort, heaviness, and swelling associated with lipedema, especially when combined with compression and ongoing care.

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11. Does acupuncture help with recovery after surgery?

Yes. Acupuncture can help reduce pain, inflammation, nausea, fatigue, and stress while supporting overall healing and recovery.

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12. Where are you located?

We are based in Epsom, Auckland and support clients across the region.

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13. What conditions do you treat?

We commonly support lymphatic conditions, post-surgical recovery, swelling, inflammation, fatigue, women’s health concerns, and chronic fluid retention.