Lymphatic drainage massage, also called manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), is a gentle, specialized technique designed to support the lymphatic system, a network of vessels, nodes, and organs that helps maintain fluid balance and protect the body from infection. The lymphatic system collects excess fluid (called lymph) from tissues and returns it to the bloodstream. When lymph flow is impaired, fluid can accumulate, leading to swelling and discomfort. MLD uses light, rhythmic strokes to encourage lymph movement toward functioning lymph vessels and lymph nodes.
MLD was developed in the 1930s by Danish therapists Emil and Estrid Vodder and has since become a recognized component of therapeutic care for certain medical conditions and rehabilitation programs.
MedBound Times connected with Dr. Isheeta Manchanda MBBS, MD Dermatology to know more about LDM.
She explains, "non-surgical body contouring has become an integral part of aesthetic dermatology. Despite their non-invasive nature, the procedures induce controlled tissue injury, leading to inflammatory responses and temporary lymphatic dysfunction."
Post-procedure edema and tissue congestion may delay visible results and affect patient satisfaction.
In her opinion, Lymphatic drainage massage (LDM) may help in:
Enhance clearance of interstitial fluid
Facilitate removal of inflammatory by-products and apoptotic adipocyte remnants
Reduce tissue congestion and stiffness
Dr. Manchanda explains that, "patients sometimes report sensations of tightness, heaviness post energy-based body contouring." "LDM may alleviate these symptoms and enhance overall post-treatment experience."
Lymphatic drainage massage (LDM) is generally considered a safe adjunctive therapy when performed by trained professionals using appropriate technique. Manual lymphatic drainage is a therapist-performed technique using gentle, rhythmic, superficial strokes directed along anatomical lymphatic pathways.
But she says that, "lymphatic drainage massage does not induce lipolysis, weight loss, or metabolic fat reduction. Its role is supportive and adjunctive."
LDM after non-surgical body contouring remain limited. Current recommendations are largely based on clinical experience, and patient-reported outcomes.
In a typical session, a trained therapist uses very light pressure and specific hand movements that follow the natural pathways of lymph vessels. The goal is to gently push excess lymph fluid toward lymph nodes and improve drainage. This differs from deep tissue or traditional massage, which targets muscle tension rather than lymph flow.
Lymphatic drainage massage has documented clinical uses in medical practice:
Lymphedema is swelling that occurs when the lymphatic system cannot adequately drain lymph fluid, often following surgery or damage to lymph nodes.
MLD is widely used as part of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) a multimodal treatment that includes compression, exercise, skin care, and MLD to reduce swelling and improve mobility.
However, research on its standalone effectiveness shows mixed results. A systematic review indicates that MLD may not always significantly reduce limb volume compared to control, though pain or subjective symptoms can improve and the total number of sessions and duration matter.
MLD is used after surgery, particularly cancer surgery such as breast cancer procedures to manage swelling and facilitate recovery, and also for conditions like chronic venous insufficiency, lipedema, and rheumatoid arthritis.
While sometimes promoted in wellness settings for general detoxification or cosmetic benefits such as reducing puffiness and improving skin tone, scientific support for these uses is limited and largely anecdotal.
The scientific literature on manual lymphatic drainage remains limited and sometimes conflicting. Some studies find benefits, particularly for symptom relief while others show minimal or statistically insignificant effects on measurable limb volume. Larger, high-quality clinical trials are still needed.
While lymphatic drainage massage is generally considered safe for many individuals, there are important contraindications. The technique should be avoided in certain situations, especially without professional guidance:
Active infections or fever
Blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (risk of dislodging clots)
Heart disease or kidney failure
Cellulitis or skin infections
Cancerous tissue areas or direct radiation-damaged skin
Some people may experience mild side effects such as tiredness, headache, or nausea after a session; unusual or severe symptoms should prompt consultation with a healthcare provider.
Although some self-massage techniques are taught for home care, especially for lymphedema management, professionals trained in MLD have specialized knowledge of pressure, anatomy, and contraindications that is important for safe and effective treatment. Patients considering at-home methods should first consult a healthcare provider.
Lymphatic drainage massage is a therapeutic technique with established medical uses, particularly for lymphedema and post-surgical swelling, and is often part of larger, evidence-based therapy programs. While evidence supports some benefits, especially for symptom relief effects on measurable outcomes such as limb volume vary between studies. Awareness of appropriate indications, contraindications, and qualified delivery is key to safe and effective care.
References
American Massage Therapy Association. “Research Updates in Lymphatic Drainage.” Massage Therapy Journal. Accessed February 5, 2026. https://www.amtamassage.org/publications/massage-therapy-journal/research-update-lymph-drainage/.
Ersoy, Sedef, Nur Kesiktaş, Büşra Şirin, Nazlı Derya Buğdaycı, Halime Kibar, and Nurdan Paker. 2023. “Comparison of Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage and Negative Pressure Massage Therapy Efficacy in Lymphedema Patients: A Randomized Controlled Study.” European Research Journal 9, no. 6 (November 4): 1474–1482. https://doi.org/10.18621/eurj.1354942.
National Library of Medicine (U.S.). 2011. Systematic Review of Efficacy for Manual Lymphatic Drainage Techniques in Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation: An Evidence-Based Practice Approach. Accessed February 5, 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2755111/.