Post Lymphatic Drainage in Scotland
- Over 50 years of aesthetic excellence
- HIS-registered clinics in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth
- Expert post-surgical care in a regulated clinical environment
- Over 500 five-star patient testimonials
Treatment Time
45 – 90 Minutes
Time Off Work
None
Sessions Required
Typically 4 – 12 sessions
When to Start
From 24 – 72 hours post-surgery
What is Post Lymphatic Drainage?
Post Lymphatic Drainage — also known as Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) — is a gentle, specialist massage technique designed to stimulate the body’s lymphatic system and encourage the natural removal of excess fluid, waste, and toxins from tissues. At La Belle Forme, we now offer this treatment as part of our comprehensive aftercare programme, available at our HIS-registered clinics across Scotland.
Unlike a traditional massage, MLD uses light, rhythmic, precisely directed strokes that work just beneath the surface of the skin — where the lymphatic vessels lie. The technique requires no deep pressure, making it safe and comfortable even in the early days following surgery. Most patients find it deeply relaxing, with many reporting an immediate feeling of lightness and reduced swelling after their first session.
Whether you have had surgery at La Belle Forme or elsewhere, our clinical team can support your recovery. We serve patients travelling from across Scotland — including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Perth, Dundee, Aberdeen, Inverness and beyond.
What Happens During Your Session?
- Light, rhythmic strokes are applied along the natural pathways of the lymphatic system, guiding fluid towards your lymph nodes for processing and removal.
- Sessions are completely non-invasive — no oils, no deep pressure, no discomfort. The touch is intentionally feather-light to avoid compressing the delicate lymphatic vessels.
- Treatment is tailored to the areas affected by your surgery, as well as any secondary areas of fluid build-up such as the legs or arms.
- Most patients experience a deeply relaxing treatment. It is not uncommon to drift off during the session.
- You will receive personalised aftercare advice to support lymphatic flow between appointments, including hydration guidance and gentle movement recommendations.
Is Post Lymphatic Drainage Right for Me?
This treatment may be suitable if you:
- Have recently undergone cosmetic surgery and are experiencing swelling, bruising or fluid retention
- Are recovering from liposuction, Vaser liposuction, a tummy tuck, breast surgery, arm lift, facelift or rhinoplasty
- Have had surgery elsewhere in Scotland or abroad and require professional post-operative aftercare
- Want to reduce the risk of post-surgical complications such as seromas or fibrosis
- Are looking to speed up your recovery and return to daily life sooner
- Prefer a gentle, medically integrated approach to healing within a regulated clinical environment
A consultation is required before your first session so we can assess your suitability, review your surgeon’s notes or discharge advice, and design the right treatment schedule for your needs.
- Significantly reduces post-surgical swelling (oedema) and bruising
- Accelerates the body’s natural healing process
- Helps prevent the formation of seromas (fluid pockets) and fibrosis (hardened scar tissue)
- Reduces pain and pressure caused by fluid accumulation
- Supports immune function during recovery — a time when the body is at its most vulnerable
- Improves skin texture and contour following body contouring procedures
- Can reduce recovery time from 9–12 months to as little as 3–6 weeks when combined with a consistent MLD programme
- Calms the sympathetic nervous system, supporting both physical and emotional recovery
- No downtime — sessions fit comfortably into your recovery schedule
Post Lymphatic Drainage is considered very low-risk when carried out by a qualified, experienced practitioner. Some patients may notice:
- A temporary need to visit the bathroom more frequently as excess fluid is processed
- Mild lightheadedness after a session — we recommend staying hydrated before and after treatment
- Slight fatigue as the body responds to the drainage process
MLD is not suitable for patients with active DVT, untreated congestive heart failure, acute renal failure, active cellulitis or open wounds. We will review your medical history at consultation and will always follow your surgeon’s post-operative guidance. All sessions at La Belle Forme are carried out in our HIS-registered clinical environment to the highest standards of patient safety.
BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION
Speak with one of our patient care coordinators
Your telephone consultation is confidential, no-obligation, and designed to help you understand your treatment options before booking an appointment.
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Prefer to speak to us?
☏ 0141 552 0828
✉ enquiries@labelleforme.co.uk
Please note a payment may be required at the booking stage. If you need more information before booking an appointment please book an appointment with one of our Patient Care Coordinators.
What Happens During Your Session
MLD is beneficial following a wide range of cosmetic and surgical procedures. At La Belle Forme, we particularly recommend it as part of your aftercare following:
Liposuction & Vaser Liposuction
Liposuction disrupts the lymphatic channels within the treated area, and the body produces significant post-operative fluid in response. MLD is essential for clearing this fluid, preventing fibrosis, and ensuring a smooth, even result. We recommend beginning within 24–48 hours of your procedure.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Breast Surgery
Whether you have undergone breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast uplift, or breast enlargement with uplift, MLD helps manage swelling around the chest and underarm areas, reduces bruising, and supports tissue healing around the implants or incision sites.
Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) & Thigh Lift
Facelift & Facial Surgery
Facial procedures including facelifts, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), rhinoplasty and ear pinning can all benefit from MLD to reduce facial swelling and bruising — helping you look and feel like yourself again more quickly.
Surgery Performed Elsewhere
Recovery & Aftercare at La Belle Forme
Your recovery is carefully supported by our team to ensure a safe and smooth healing journey. Most people can return home the same day, and we provide clear guidance to help you feel confident throughout the process.
We’ll also schedule follow-up appointments at our Glasgow clinic to monitor your progress and answer any questions you may have.
Our dedicated aftercare support line is available should you need reassurance at any point during your recovery. Your comfort, safety, and satisfaction are our top priorities.
Why Choose La Belle Forme Glasgow?
At La Belle Forme, you’ll receive personalised care from a highly experienced team in one of Scotland’s leading aesthetic clinics.
GMC-Registered Surgeons with Years of Experience
All procedures are carried out by experienced, GMC-registered surgeons who meet the required standards of medical training and practice in the UK.
Aftercare Plans Tailored to Individual Needs
Consultations with No Obligation
HIS-Regulated Clinics and Hospitals
All our facilities in Scotland are regulated by Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS), ensuring high standards of safety, hygiene, and patient care are consistently maintained.
FAQ's
In most cases, MLD can begin as soon as 24 to 72 hours after your procedure, depending on the type of surgery and your surgeon’s advice. The sooner MLD is started, the more effective it is at managing swelling and preventing complications. We will always review your surgical notes and coordinate with your surgeon’s guidance at your first consultation.
Most patients benefit from a course of 4 to 12 sessions, depending on the procedure and how your body responds to treatment. Following significant procedures such as liposuction or a tummy tuck, we typically recommend 2 to 3 sessions per week during the first two weeks, reducing in frequency as swelling subsides. Your therapist will recommend a personalised schedule at your initial appointment.
No. MLD is one of the gentlest treatments available. The pressure used is intentionally very light — often described as feeling like a feather-light touch — as the lymphatic vessels sit just beneath the skin’s surface. Most patients find it deeply relaxing. If you experience any discomfort, your therapist will adjust the technique immediately.
Yes. Fibrosis — the formation of hard, fibrous scar tissue beneath the skin — is one of the most common complications following liposuction and body contouring procedures. Regular MLD sessions, started early in recovery, are widely recognised as the most effective way to prevent and treat post-surgical fibrosis, keeping the treated areas smooth and the results looking their best.
Absolutely. We welcome patients from across Scotland who have had surgery elsewhere, whether that is at another clinic in Scotland or overseas. Simply bring your discharge paperwork and any surgeon’s instructions to your first appointment, and our team will design your MLD programme around your specific procedure and recovery stage.
Yes. There is no downtime following MLD. Most patients return to light daily activities immediately after their session. We recommend staying well hydrated for the rest of the day and avoiding strenuous exercise unless your surgeon has already given you clearance to do so.
Post Lymphatic Drainage is available at our clinics in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth. We also welcome patients travelling from Dundee, Aberdeen, Inverness, Stirling, Fife and across Scotland. Contact us to discuss which clinic is most convenient for you.
Visit Us in Glasgow
- 154 Clyde Street, Glasgow, G1 4EX
La Belle Forme is located in the heart of Glasgow, easily accessible by train, bus, and car. We offer flexible appointment times to fit your schedule.