What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialized massage technique that uses gentle, rhythmic strokes to stimulate the flow of lymph fluid through the body's lymphatic system. Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not have a pump, so it relies on movement, breathing, and manual techniques to move fluid efficiently. When this flow is disrupted, fluid can accumulate in soft tissue, causing swelling, heaviness, and discomfort.
MLD is used for a wide range of conditions. It is commonly sought after surgery, particularly body contouring and cosmetic procedures such as tummy tucks and 360 liposuction, where disruption to lymphatic pathways leads to post-operative swelling and fluid retention. It is also used for chronic lower limb edema in people who stand for extended periods, general water retention, and as part of broader wellness and recovery care.
The technique is gentle and is typically well-tolerated even in the early stages of post-surgical recovery.
Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage: What It Is and Who It Helps
Brazilian lymphatic drainage is a specialized form of MLD developed to address post-surgical swelling following body contouring procedures. It uses specific sequences and pressures designed for the connective tissue and lymphatic pathways most affected by procedures such as tummy tucks, 360 liposuction, and other cosmetic surgeries.
Patients recovering from these procedures often experience significant fluid buildup, firmness, and discomfort in the days and weeks following surgery. Brazilian MLD helps the body clear excess fluid more efficiently, reduce post-operative fibrosis, and support a smoother recovery. Many cosmetic surgeons and clinics recommend MLD as part of their post-operative care protocols.
Sunny Sehra, RMT, is one of a limited number of massage therapists in Brampton with specific experience in Brazilian lymphatic drainage techniques.
Our Approach to Lymphatic Drainage at Action Physiotherapy
Sukhbir (Sunny) Sehra, RMT, brings over 10 years of professional massage therapy experience to each session. Sunny works across a wide range of techniques, including Shiatsu, cupping therapy, myofascial release, and hot stone massage, but lymphatic drainage is a particular area of focus given its application in post-surgical recovery and swelling management.
Sunny's approach to MLD is individualized: session pressure, sequencing, and duration are adjusted based on each client's presentation, whether they are recovering from surgery, managing chronic lower limb swelling, or seeking general lymphatic support. Every treatment is designed around the client's specific needs and goals.
Learn more about Sunny on our team page.
What to Expect at Your Lymphatic Drainage Session
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Step 2: Treatment
Step 3: Post-Session Guidance
What Lymphatic Drainage Can Help With
Post-Surgical Swelling and Recovery
MLD is particularly effective following body contouring procedures, including tummy tucks, 360 liposuction, and other cosmetic surgeries. It helps reduce fluid buildup, minimize post-operative fibrosis, and support a faster, more comfortable recovery.
Lower Limb Swelling and Water Retention
Clients who stand for extended periods, or who experience general water retention and heaviness in the legs and ankles, often find significant relief with regular MLD sessions.
General Lymphatic Support and Wellness
MLD supports the body's natural drainage and immune function, making it a useful addition to broader wellness and recovery care for clients managing chronic conditions or seeking preventive support.
Massage Therapy
Our Massage therapist specializes in chronic pain, orthopaedic injuries, postpartum, prenatal, pediatric, post-surgical care, and musculoskeletal abnormalities. We focus on the client needs and help identify cause of pain and work together to help patients recover fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
This depends on the procedure and your surgeon's guidance. For many body contouring surgeries, MLD can begin within a few days of the procedure, once initial wound healing has started. Sunny will confirm appropriate timing at your intake consultation and can coordinate with your surgical team's recommendations.
Post-surgical clients typically benefit from a series of sessions in the first few weeks following surgery, with frequency decreasing as recovery progresses. For swelling management or general lymphatic support, session frequency is determined by your individual presentation. Sunny will outline a recommended schedule at your first appointment.
Many extended health benefit plans cover registered massage therapy, which includes MLD when performed by an RMT. Sunny Sehra is a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) in Ontario. We recommend checking your plan's coverage details before your first visit.
No. Manual lymphatic drainage uses very light pressure and gentle strokes. It is not a deep tissue treatment. Most clients find it relaxing, even those who are post-surgical and in early recovery stages.
Yes. MLD is appropriate for a wide range of clients, including those managing water retention, lower limb swelling, chronic edema, or those simply looking to support their lymphatic system as part of a wellness routine.
Book Your Lymphatic Drainage Appointment in Brampton
Action Physiotherapy is located at 332 Main St N in Brampton. Sunny Sehra, RMT, is accepting new patients for manual and Brazilian lymphatic drainage. We welcome patients from across Brampton, Mississauga, Caledon, and Peel Region.
