A Specialised form of gentle, rhythmical massage – Dr Hans Clinics
Lymphatic drainage is not a detox miracle and your lymphatic system does not need an influencer to switch it on.
Manual lymphatic drainage, or MLD, is a specialised form of gentle, rhythmical massage intended to encourage lymph movement. At Dr Hans Clinics, the treatment is offered as a 60-minute hands-on session and is adapted to the individual.
MLD is typically lighter and more rhythmical than a conventional deep-tissue massage. Heavy pressure is not the objective. The technique follows lymphatic pathways using repeated manual movements.
People may seek MLD for a feeling of puffiness, swelling or general wellbeing. In established lymphoedema, MLD is usually considered within a broader management programme rather than as a stand-alone cure. Research on MLD is mixed: some studies report symptom or volume benefits in specific populations, while systematic reviews also find inconsistent or limited additional benefit.
For that reason, we do not advertise lymphatic drainage as a way to ‘flush toxins’, cause fat loss or treat medical swelling without proper assessment.
New, unexplained, one-sided, painful or rapidly increasing swelling should not simply be booked in for massage. The underlying cause needs to be considered first. The same applies where there is concern about infection, thrombosis, significant cardiac or renal disease, or another condition in which massage may be inappropriate.
Most people can return to normal activities afterwards. Your practitioner will advise you if there is anything specific to your circumstances. Dramatic ‘detox’ rituals are not required.
Avoid arriving with deliberately irritated or sunburnt skin. Tell us about active skin conditions, allergies, recent procedures and prescription skincare. After treatment, keep the routine simple if the skin feels sensitive and use appropriate sun protection.
Qualified to NVQ Level 3 and Aesthetic Level 4
No. Manual lymphatic drainage uses lighter, specific rhythmic movements rather than the pressure and muscle-focused techniques typical of many conventional massages.
That phrase is heavily overused. The lymphatic system is part of normal fluid balance and immune function, but a massage should not be marketed as physically extracting unspecified ‘toxins’ from the body.
It is not a fat-loss treatment. Changes in fluid or puffiness should not be confused with loss of body fat.
MLD can form part of lymphoedema management in selected patients, often alongside compression, exercise, skin care and specialist assessment. Evidence for its additional benefit varies by population and severity.
Post-operative massage should only be undertaken when appropriate for the operation, healing stage and surgeon’s instructions. Tell the clinic exactly what surgery you had and when before booking.
Book a 60-minutes lymphatic drainage massage at Dr Hans Clinics London. Gentle, rhythmical manual techniques tailored to the individual.
Book lymphatic drainage massage in London at Dr Hans Clinics. Gentle manual techniques support fluid movement and may help reduce swelling and puffiness safely.
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