the silent part of post-op recovery no one warned you about

Sharon Sterling LMT, MLD, CLT | CHC
20 hours ago
3 min read

They told you to expect swelling. They didn't tell you you'd feel like your skin doesn't belong to your body. They told you to wear a faja. They didn't say it would dig into your ribs, or that sleeping upright would steal your rest night after night. And now, you're tired, frustrated, and wondering-Is this normal? Am I healing right? You're not alone. And yes-there's help.

You're Healing... But It Doesn't Feel Like It

Let's be real. Healing hurts sometimes. You wake up bloated and puffy, the scale is lying to you, your emotions are a mess, and your surgical team is done-they handed you a care sheet and now you're supposed to figure it out? That's where we come in

What Your Body is Trying to Tell You

Swelling isn't the enemy-it's your body crying out: "Help me move this fluid. Help me detox. Help me reset." But when the lymphatic system is overwhelmed, your body can't clear the inflammation. That's where Manual Lymphatic Drainage becomes your lifeline

What Clients Say After Their First Real MLD Session

I didn't even know how backed up I was. It felt like a release I've been holding in my chest for days. After my first session, I cried. Not from pain-but from relief. Someone finally understood what I needed. I walked puffy and stiff. I walked out breathing deeper, looser, and feeling like I had my body back.

The Things You're Afraid to Say Out Loud... We Say Them Here

I feel gross.
I can't go to the bathroom.
Why am I leaking fluid from everywhere?
I'm scared something's wrong.

We hear this all the time. Not because something is wrong, but because no one gave you the full picture.

The Truth: Post-Surgery Recovery Is a Whole Journey

Healing is not just physical.
It's emotional, mental, hormonal, and spiritual.
You need someone to tell you: " It's okay to cry."
You're not healing slow-you're healing smart.
It's okay to need help-and here's how to get it.

So, What Can You Do Right Now?

Get Lymphatic Drainage - From someone trained in post-op protocols.
Hydrate & Nourish - Your body can't detox if it's dehydrated.
Let Go of Shame - This is not the time to be tough. It's time to be supported.
Ask Questions - No one should shame you for needing answers.

Finding a Qualified Medical Massage Therapist

Let's Talk

To reap the benefits of lymphatic massage, it is vital to find a qualified therapist with experience in post-surgery care. Look for therapists who:

Possess specialized training in the anatomy and basic theory of the lymphatic system, as well as in the regional pathways, application, and techniques of manual lymphatic drainage. https://www.myspatime.com
Understand the surgical procedures and recovery protocols.
Can collaborate with your healthcare team for a comprehensive recovery plan.

Conclusion

The healing power of specialized lymphatic massage in post-surgery recovery cannot be overstated. By addressing both physical and emotional aspects of healing, specialized lymphatic massage offers a comprehensive approach that enhances recovery and improves quality of life. As patients navigate their post-surgery journey, incorporating specialized lymphatic therapies into their care regimen can be a transformative step toward achieving optimal health and well-being.

AMTA Member: American Massage Therapy Association | ACOLS Member: Academy of Lymphatic Studies

1Massage @ aTime, LLC