Lymphatic Drainage Massage: What Is It and How Does It Work?

 

Our Co-Founder Stefanie was recently invited to try a lymphatic drainage massage with Yvonne from Pro Contour Lymphatics and we received so many questions about it after posting on Instagram, that we decided to pull together a little Q&A with Yvonne herself.

Oh and by the way - if you do choose to have a massage with Yvonne, do quote The List for £20 off your appointment.

Let’s jump into the questions.

 

What is lymphatic drainage? 

Lymphatic drainage is the process of moving lymph, a clear fluid containing water, proteins, fats, waste products, and immune cells, through the lymphatic system and back into the bloodstream. The lymphatic system helps maintain fluid balance and plays an important role in immune function. Lymphatic vessels contain oestrogen receptors which means they can respond directly to oestrogen.

Oestrogen and fluid retention are closely linked, because oestrogen influences how the body regulates salt, water, blood vessels, and tissue fluid balance. This is why many women notice bloating, breast swelling, and fluid retention at certain times in their menstrual cycle or during different stages of their life. 

A lymphatic drainage massage works by gently encouraging lymph fluid to move through the lymphatic system and back into the bloodstream, where it can be processed and removed by the body. Unlike the cardiovascular system, which has the heart as a pump, the lymphatic system relies on muscle movement, breathing, and body movements to circulate lymph.

What are the benefits?

Here are just a few of the benefits from a manual lymphatic drainage massage: As well as improving lymphatic flow and reducing water retention and bloating, it can also improve cellulite and stretch marks, aid digestion and scar tissue healing, help fight off infections, promote relaxation and sculpt and contour the body.

If you’ve had an operation, lymphatic drainage massage helps to reduce swelling and bruising, accelerates the healing process, prevents complications, enhances circulation, supports skin health and promotes relaxation.

What are the expected results?

Every individual will experience different results from the treatment but I've included a few expected results here:

• Reduced water retention and bloating
• Better definition in legs, buttocks, abdomen, face 
• Improves the appearance of cellulite 
• Feeling lighter and more energised
• Feeling more relaxed 

Many people describe looking "less swollen" or "more sculpted" immediately afterwards, which is one reason the treatment is popular before holidays, events, or photoshoots.

What makes the Brazilian technique different?

The Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage is designed to create a more noticeable sculpted appearance immediately after treatment.

How long does it take to work?

People will see immediate results but it will continue to work over the next 48hrs.

Does it hurt? 

No, the massage itself shouldn't hurt but some people can find the cupping uncomfortable if that technique is used during the session.

Can you just do it once?

Yes, if you just want to come in and try it but it is beneficial to have more than one, along with diet and lifestyle changes.

How often should we do it?

That's very individual and depends on how good your diet and lifestyle are. I want to get individuals to a place where they only need to come and see me for a treatment every now and then.

Can anyone try it?

No, it's actually not suitable for anyone with an active infection, cancer, deep vein thrombosis or a suspected blood clot, heart or kidney failure, or severe hypertension.

Can you do it when pregnant?

Yes. pregnant women can often receive a modified lymphatic drainage treatment, but the practitioners should have had the appropriate training!

Do you have to do anything before or after the treatment?

Keep hydrated! And try to come in fasted from food or only eat lightly beforehand if its later in the day.

How can we book?

Contact Yvonne directly through Instagram, WhatsApp (07723609155) or email PC@lymphatic.gg.

 

Yvonne runs Pro Contour Lymphatics at the Guernsey Tennis Club, offering lymphatic drainage massage. Prices are £185 for the initial appointment (consultation and massage) and then for the 2hr follow up review it's £160. Further appointments are tailored to the individual's needs.

Oh, and quote ‘The List’ for £20 off!