Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) & Lymphatic Health

Specialist support for post-op recovery, lymphoedema, lipoedema & more.

If you are not sure where you fit, or whether MLD is right for you, do not worry. You are not expected to know exactly what you need.
Keep reading for more information about how MLD and lymphatic-focused care may help — or get in touch if you would like some guidance before booking.

Why Lymphatic Health Matters

The lymphatic system plays a vital role in immune defence, fluid balance, and healing. When it’s under stress — whether from surgery, trauma, or chronic conditions — lymph fluid can build up, which may contribute to swelling, discomfort, and slower recovery.​

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, specialised technique designed to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid, which may help to:

  • Reduce swelling

  • Support post-surgical recovery

  • Ease discomfort in some chronic lymphatic conditions

  • Support general wellbeing

My Approach

I am a qualified lymphoedema therapist — registered with MLDUK as a DLT-level practitioner and a member of the British Lymphology Society and Lipoedema UK. I have completed accredited specialist training in post-operative MLD and regularly support people with:

  • Cosmetic and orthopaedic surgery recovery

  • Lymphoedema and lipoedema

  • Ongoing swelling, bloating or fluid retention

  • Symptoms that may be linked to hormonal or immune-related conditions

Each appointment is tailored to your specific needs and focused on the treatment you have booked.

Post-Surgical MLD

You can usually begin MLD as early as the day after surgery, although it is important to follow your surgeon’s specific advice.
MLD is often used after:

  • Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)

  • Liposuction, including for lipoedema

  • Arm lift (brachioplasty)

  • Breast surgery

  • Facial rejuvenation surgery (rhytidectomy)

  • Nasal surgery (rhinoplasty)

  • Orthopaedic procedures (hip and knee replacements, spinal surgery)

Post-operative MLD is used to support recovery, help reduce swelling and discomfort, and assist the body’s natural healing processes.

Lymphoedema Management

Lymphoedema is a long-term condition in which swelling develops because lymph fluid builds up in the tissues. It may be:

  • Primary lymphoedema, present from birth or due to underdeveloped lymph vessels

  • Secondary lymphoedema, developing later in life, often after cancer treatment, surgery, trauma, venous disease or periods of immobility

Lymphoedema is typically managed with a combination of Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), compression, exercise, skin care and infection prevention.
With specialist training and registration, support is offered to help people manage their symptoms, improve lymphatic drainage and maintain comfort and function over the long term.

Lipoedema Support

Lipoedema is a long-term condition affecting the body’s connective and fat tissues, most commonly in women. It involves an unusual, symmetrical build-up of fat, typically in the hips, buttocks, legs and sometimes the arms, which can create a disproportionate body shape.

The affected areas often feel heavy, bruise easily and may be painful or tender. Many people also experience swelling, fatigue and difficulty with everyday activities, and can feel misunderstood or dismissed when seeking help.

MLD and lymphatic-focused self-care can form part of a wider management plan for lipoedema. Support can include symptom management, comfort, and preparation or recovery around lipoedema surgery, where appropriate.

Other situations where MLD is sometimes used

  • People also seek MLD as part of wider management for issues such as:

    • Bloating and feelings of fluid retention

    • Low energy, “brain fog”, headaches or fatigue

    • Symptoms associated with PCOS, endometriosis and other hormonal conditions

    • IBS-type symptoms or sluggish digestion

    • Sinus congestion or a tendency to “feel blocked”

    • Fibromyalgia, lupus and other inflammatory conditions

    • Stress-related tension and a sense of nervous system overload

    • Pregnancy-related swelling (where appropriate and guided by medical advice)

If you are living with lymphoedema, lipoedema, post-surgical swelling or you are simply unsure whether MLD is appropriate for you, you are welcome to get in touch to discuss your situation before booking.
Together, we can decide on the most suitable approach for your needs.