Why do I need Lymph Drainage Therapy after my liposuction, Smart-lipo, Cool Sculpting or other cosmetic surgery procedure?

You many notice a hardness or lumpiness to the areas treated with liposuction Smart-lipo, or Cool Sculpting especially in the abdominal area and even more so if combined with other body contouring procedures (such as fat injections for what is popularly known as the Brazilian Butt Lift) This is normal right after your procedure. This post-surgical lymphedema is caused by inflammation and trauma from the cannula (instrument that sucks out the fat) moving under the skin. Channels are formed by the cannula that can fill up with fluid and the tissue also becomes swollen. Manual Lymph Massage helps to move the fluid by gently pumping it back into the lymph vessels. Reducing the swelling can reduce discomfort. Without Lymph Massage (LDT or MLD) the inflammation can evolve into fibrosis (a permanent hardening of the tissue) or a seroma ( pocket of serum) can form. Many doctors prescribe Lymph Drainage Therapy after liposuction or other plastic surgery procedures to make sure their patients get the best possible results from their procedure.

Is Lymph Drainage Therapy a deep massage?

No, although it may seem that deep massage would assist in decreasing the hardness following liposuction, it would actually increase the circulation to the treated areas making it harder to evacuate the lymph fluid. Even though MLD is extremely light work, it is the most efficient way to reduce swelling and bruising. It is based on scientific knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the Lymphatic System. It is a myth that deep massage and heat are beneficial in healing after liposuction. The Vodder Method and the Chikly Technique are widely accepted forms of Lymph Drainage Therapy performed in hospitals and clinics all over the world. So, even though it may seem to you that a deep massage or other forms of therapeutic or Swedish massage would be helpful, it is not.

Does MLD help get rid of bruising?

Yes. That is one of the best applications of MLD. Bruises are an accumulation of cellular debris and old red blood cells in the tissue. Lymph Drainage Therapy greatly reduces healing time for bruises by cleansing the extracellular spaces where these substances are trapped.

Is Lymph Drainage Massage Painful?

Performed properly it is not painful. The Vodder Technique is the most respected method of Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) over the world. It is NOT traditional massage. It is a specialized, advanced bodywork modality that uses a gentle, rotating, pumping motion that moves the lymph fluid without increasing the blood circulation. Increasing the blood circulation with deep massage and heat can actually inhibit the movement of lymph fluid by changing the permeability of the lymph and blood vessels. Do NOT receive a general therapeutic, deep tissue or Swedish Massage in lieu of MLD.

How many treatments will I need?

It is ideal to receive at least one or two MLD treatments prior to a procedure. There are many different things that can influence healing. Some patients get 1-6 treatments post-operatively and that is enough, especially if the only area of liposuction was the legs, knees, or flanks. People getting liposuction to the abdomen often find they require up to 12 sessions. Occasionally a client will need more than 12, especially if they had “Smart-lipo”. Also, patients who get multiple procedures at the same time (lipo and a tummy tuck, or lipo and a buttock enhancement; Brazilian Butt Lift) may need more sessions than someone who only gets one procedure. Sessions may be paid for individually, or in discounted packages of 5.

What is an MLD treatment like?

After an initial consultation, you will undress, lie down on a massage table in the face-up position, covered modestly with a sheet. The atmosphere is the same as a massage treatment room with dim lighting and soft music. Although you are in a massage setting, it is important to understand that MLD is a specific form of bodywork designed to efficiently move lymph fluid in your body. MLD is completely different from a deep tissue, Swedish or relaxation massage that you may be expecting or have had in the past. Stimulation of the Lymphatic System activates the para-sympathetic nervous system producing an automatic physiological relaxation response. Many clients fall asleep. Only the area being worked on is undraped at any time. Gentle, rotating, pumping motions with the therapist’s hands and fingertips begin at the collarbone area, then focus on areas where there is a concentration of lymph nodes…the underarms, abdomen, groin and back of the knees. Usually the entire session is performed with you lying in the face-up position because all of the areas of lymph nodes that need to be decongested are located on the front of the body, although some surgeries do require the patient to turn side to side or face down for a short time if tolerated. Starting on the back (even for fat injections to the buttocks) would not be indicated because it is necessary to open up the major lymphatic areas on the front of your body before the backside of the body can drain. It is very important to decongest the areas of drainage in the groin, abdomen, underarms and collarbone areas before sending extra lymph fluid to them. Directing lymph fluid to nodal areas without opening the lymph nodes up first increases the discomfort and overwhelms the nodes, leading to increased recovery time. Each session is one hour, although those who have several procedures at the same time might prefer a 90 minute session.

How often is MLD applied?

The first week it is suggested that sessions be daily or every other day, if possible. The second week, every other day, reducing in frequency after that. It is not possible to get too much MLD and the sessions can be scheduled at your convenience.

How soon after my procedure can MLD begin?

It is possible to begin within 24 hours. Most people wait until they can comfortably drive themselves to appointments.

It has been over a month since I had my procedure. Is it too late to begin MLD?

No. The healing process after these types of procedure is several months. If it has been over a month since your procedure you can still get the smoothing benefits of MLD. If it has been over 6 months since your procedure and you are still feeling lumps and hardness you should contact your doctor to make sure you have not developed fibrosis or a seroma.

Do I need a prescription for MLD?

No. Although many doctors recommend MLD, it is also perfectly fine to self-refer.

Is massage after surgery safe?

In many cases, the answer is, yes. But it’s always a good idea to check with the surgeon or primary care doctor, because there may be certain areas you’ll want to avoid, or the specific conditions when it might be best to wait.

How long after a surgery can a massage be given?

The answer involves much more than the surgery – remember, massage therapy addresses the needs of an individual, not a procedure. Generally, as soon as the client is comfortable with having a massage, you’re good to go. Remember, surgery carries with it emotional components, so one of the best approaches is to provide a relaxing, soothing and caring touch to help heal the soul. And then there are the pain-relieving components as well – some people have post-op pain, and massage is a terrific natural alternative to those prescription drugs patients get sent home with.

What about massaging the surgical wound site?

That would depend on the condition of the surgical site. If it’s still healing up – especially if it hasn’t closed up yet, is red or draining, or is swollen, you should avoid working on the area with any friction or pulling strokes that might stress the wound. However, feather-light stroking in the surrounding area can be soothing.

Can I work on scar tissue?

The old-school answer was, not for two years. But what is becoming more common practice is to begin massaging scar tissue after as little as three weeks, as it can boost healing. In fact, some patients are even being taught self-massage of scar tissue before even leaving the hospital.

About Us

Your Trusted Lymphatic Massage Specialists

Carolina Pintos Therapy is Houston’s leading clinic for lymphatic drainage, lymphedema, post op massage & treatment (recovery for BBL, tummy tuck, c-section, liposuction, etc.), post cancer recovery, pre & post pregnancy care, esthetic, body slimming, contouring, and general surgery and injury recovery therapy. Our commitment to consistently providing high-quality care, superior medical knowledge, and excellent customer service has made us the most referred post-operative clinic in the area, with over 25 doctors actively recommending our facility.

Our team consists of experienced, medically trained massage therapists who are led by Physical Therapist, Carolina Pintos. We are dedicated to providing you with the most professional and effective treatment plan in the industry and stand behind all of our services with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

We are the leading lymphatic, lymphedema, post surgery, pregnancy, and esthetics clinic in Houston. Our commitment to providing high-quality care, superior medical knowledge, and excellent customer service has made us the most referred clinic with 25 doctors recommending our facility.

Our team consists of experienced, medically trained therapists who are led by Physical Therapist, Carolina Pintos. All our treatments are backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee.

A Little About Your Lead Therapist

Carolina Pintos, PT, LMT, MTT, MLD

As a Physical Therapist with over 17 years of experience in the field, I have had the privilege of working in a variety of settings, from hospitals to post-surgical rehabilitation clinics and medical spa centers. Throughout my journey, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and expertise in helping individuals heal from a range of illnesses, diseases, and injuries.

My passion for healing began at a young age, as I was constantly involved in animal rescue and had a great curiosity for medicine. This led me to pursue my undergraduate degree in Physical Therapy at the University of Bahia in Brazil. The University of Bahia had a unique coursework for post-operative recovery which is not commonly found in Physical Therapy programs in the United States. This provided me with a valuable credential that is highly sought after in the field, and also helped me to gain a deeper understanding of post-operative recovery and rehabilitation. Additionally, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Spain, where I deepened my knowledge and learned additional treatments and techniques.

However, my life took a pivotal turn after the unexpected passing of my grandfather and father while I was actively working and completing my master’s degree in Physical Therapy in Brazil. This tragic loss led me to reevaluate my life and make the courageous decision to start anew in the United States. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new language and culture, and rebuilding my life with limited financial resources, I was able to overcome these obstacles and establish myself as a successful therapist in the United States.

Today, I am the proud owner and operator of Carolina Pintos Therapy, a premier provider of postoperative care in Houston. My patient population includes individuals seeking treatment for various issues, such as esthetic concerns, post-surgical recovery for both cosmetic and non-cosmetic procedures, pre- and post-partum care, cancer rehabilitation, and more. I have developed a protocol for preventing and managing post-surgical complications, which is exclusively taught and implemented at Carolina Pintos Therapy and has gained the admiration of many Houston-based surgeons. These specialized techniques are informed by Japanese, French, and Brazilian practices and are tailored to optimize treatment outcomes.

As my practice continues to grow, I remain committed to delivering informed, high-quality therapy services in Houston and prioritizing the comfort and safety of my patients. I am proud to offer unique and efficacious treatments to my patients and am dedicated to helping them achieve their desired results.

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Our Team

As part of the onboarding process at Carolina Pintos Therapy, all staff members undergo a comprehensive training and apprenticeship program. This includes gaining a thorough understanding of the various stages of inflammation and other post-operative essentials to effectively deliver medical massage and treatment. Additionally, our team includes a Registered Nurse (RN) to assist with more invasive procedures and treatments. We are committed to providing the highest level of care and are proud to be the best-staffed clinic in Houston, offering a range of post-operative and esthetic services.

Carolina Pintos Therapy - Emily Post Op and Lymphatic Massage therapist — Emily

Carolina Pintos Therapy - Liz Post Op and Lymphatic Massage therapist — Liz

Carolina Pintos Therapy - Lisa Post Op and Lymphatic Massage therapist — Lisa

Carolina Pintos Therapy - Claudia Post Op and Lymphatic Massage therapist — Claudia

Carolina Pintos Therapy - Verlene Post Op and Lymphatic Massage therapist — Verlene

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gloria tanksley

14:04 05 Apr 23

Had a lower neck/face lift 2 months ago. A friend recommended a lymphatic facial, had never heard of this procedure. Googled for places in Houston which offered this procedure and the best fit for me was Carolina Pintos after all reviews. THIS HAS BEEN AN ABSOLUTE GAME CHANGER REGARDING THE HEALING PROCESS, scar tissue, swelling, lumps, etc!!! Can’t give this treatment enough praise. ... Extremely pleased w/my physician and nurse but why don’t they share this valuable information with the patient. 🤷‍♀️. Don’t even consider surgery w/out planning lymphatic drainage treatments for recovery - post op! Blessed to have found these amazing therapist! THANK YOU!read more

Anahi Garza

15:56 21 Mar 23

Carolina Pintos and her staff are simply the best! I was recommended her service by my Dr. due to her mobile services so I booked an at-home session. After a clerical mishap (which Carolina corrected), I was issued a full refund with no questions asked; BUT, Carolina contacted me directly and INSISTED she provide me with her personal services free of charge in an effort to right the... misunderstanding. Carolina drove to my house personally (an hour away from her own place of business) 4 separate times! After which, she insisted I come into her office for her to utilize her tools for scar tissue therapy. Her professionalism and commitment to customer service should be recommendation enough yet still, even those two strengths fall short of the type of work she offers. Carolina truly helped me heal! She is visibly knowledgeable in her craft as my results do not lie. I felt better and more normal after each session and while I will not state the sessions were always the most comfortable, it was worth each and every discomfort as I walked out of each session with more strength and less pain from my surgery. Please do yourself the favor of booking her services as you will not be disappointed. I will personally be sure to pass along her name to anyone in search of lymphatic and post-op treatment.read more

Autumn Falls

20:37 09 Mar 23

If you are still deciding or hesitate go ahead and make the appointment! Carolina and her team are simply amazing. I am over a year post op and I am finally getting the treatments I need. Carolina is very knowledgeable and her staff is well trained. She is honest and gives you a individual treatment plan. It is evident that she truly cares about her clients because she makes at home... recommendations as well. Trust me if you want the best results and best use of your money, make the appointment! The staff and environment are very welcoming, clean and full of positive energy. I highly recommend this place!!!read more

Jackie Knudsen

20:15 02 Jan 23

Carolina and the team she leads are just incredible! Everyone is super friendly and knowledgable.But most importantly, their therapy truly works. I had a lot of scars after my surgery and because of the treatments nearly everything was resolved. They also advised me step-by-step on what to do and not to do. I went here five times and will continue to return. I love this place and HIGHLY... recommend them!read more

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