Certified Lymphatic Draingage
Decreases swelling, inflammation, and pain
Scar Tissue Care
Accelerates recovery and reduces scar tissue formation
Post Surgery Recovery Experts
Care matched to your stage of healing
Real Customer Results
Houston’s Top Plastic Surgeons
And Voted Best in Class by
&
Post-Op Recovery Treatments
We provide a two-stage treatment approach starting with lymphatic massage paired with red light therapy to reduce swelling and promote fluid drainage. As healing progresses and the body begins forming scar tissue, we transition to our scar tissue treatment, which incorporates high-vibration technology, vacuum therapy, RF, ultrasound cavitation, and in some cases kinesiology taping.
Post-Op Lymphatic Drainage
24hrs after surgery for 2-3 weeks
Scar Tissue Treatment
3-4 weeks after surgery
*Get $15 OFF on your 4th visit
with our loyalty program!
Discover the benefits of our CO₂ Carboxy Post-Op Add-On
In-Home Mobile Post-Op Recovery
Looking for an in-home concierge experience? Our skilled therapists bring this treatment directly to you, enhancing your postoperaive recovery in the comfort of your home.
Mobile Post-Op Treatment
*Get $15 OFF on your 4th visit
with our loyalty program!
Included With Your Post-Op Treatment
Red Light Therapy
Stimulates cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and iccelerates healing by increasing blood flow and oxygenation at the tissue level.
High-Speed Vibration
Targets myofascial and scar tissue restrictions, improving mobility, flexibility, and lymphatic flow while helping remodel uneven scar tissue.
Cupping & Vacuum Therapy
Enhance circulation, relieves, tension, and gently releases adhesions to improve tissue elasticity, and skin smoothness.
Radio Frequency
Stimulates collagen and elastin remodeling, making scar tissue more pliable and responsive to therapv.
Ultra Cavitation
Releases fibrotic tissue in fatty regions, facilitate seroma resorption, and improve tissue pliability and mobility, applied in specific areas when clinically indicated.
Kinesiology Tape
Improves microcirculation, reduce edema, and decrease lymphatic congestion.
Post-Op Garment
We also provide surgical drain removal, garment fitment, and patient education to ensure your recovery remains safe, effective, and properly supported at every stage.
Add-On Treatment
CO2 Carboxy Post-op Gel
Our medical-grade CO₂ carboxytherapy gel is a powerful boost to your post-operative recovery. This clinically proven formula creates a controlled “oxygen-deprived” effect on the skin. In response, your body rushes oxygen-rich blood, nutrients, and growth factors to the area—jump-starting repair at a cellular level.
Note: This treatment is performed separately by our Esthetician and must be booked on its own.
Post-Op C02 Package
$297 (SAVE $7)
3 Pack | 3 Sessions
Post-Op C02 Package
$594 (SAVE $44)
6 Pack | 6 Sessions
713-474-4774
*Get $15 OFF on your 4th visit
with our loyalty program!
Features & Benefits:
The CO₂ carboxy gel increases oxygen delivery to post-surgical tissue, helping the body repair and remodel scarred areas more efficiently. Improved circulation supports healing where scars are dense, restricted, or slow to improve.
This helps:
- Soften dense, fibrotic scar tissue
- Improve tissue flexibility and mobility
- Support healthier skin regeneration
- Improve skin quality over larger surgical areas
- Enhance recovery after tummy tuck, breast, and other surgeries
Ideal for newer or mature scars that need targeted healing support.
Ingredients:
Water, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Alginate, Magnesium Carbonate, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Ceramide 1, Ceramide 3, Ceramide 6 II, Passiflora edulis (passionfruit) Extract, Pueraria thunbergiana (kudzu) Root Extract, Chlorella vulgaris Extract, Aloe barbadensis Leaf Extract, Artemisia princeps (mugwort) Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Calcium Chloride, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Carbomer, Phenoxyethanol, Citrus Aurantium dulcis (orange), Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Alumina, Silica
Our Post-Op Recovery Packages
In-Office
Recovery Packages
These packages provide all of your post-op treatments at one of our two state-of-the-art facilities. Early sessions focus on lymphatic drainage with red light therapy to reduce swelling, followed by scar tissue remodeling with massage, vibration, and RF therapy for smoother results.
In-Office Recovery
$2,290 (SAVE $152)
15 Session Package
In-Office Recovery
$3,135 (SAVE $247)
20 Session Package
These in-office packages are ideal for patients who want consistent, clinic-based care while enjoying the savings that come with completing all treatments in-office.
Hybrid Office & Home
Recovery Packages
These packages combine in-home convenience with in-clinic care. Seven early sessions are provided at home, focusing on lymphatic drainage with red light therapy to ease swelling. The remaining sessions take place in our clinic, where recovery continues with scar tissue remodeling using advanced tools and massage for smoother results.
Hybrid Recovery
$3,155 (SAVE $240)
15 Session Package
Hybrid Recovery
$4,000 (SAVE $370)
20 Session Package
These hybrid packages are ideal for patients who want the comfort of in-home care during the initial recovery stage while benefiting from the cost savings of continuing treatments in-office as recovery progresses.
All In-Home Mobile
Recovery Packages
These packages bring full post-surgery care to your home, beginning with lymphatic drainage and red light therapy to reduce swelling, then progressing to scar tissue remodeling with advanced tools and massage for smoother results.
In-Home Recovery
$3,810 (SAVE $135)
15 Session Package
In-Home Recovery
$5,080 (SAVE $280)
20 Session Package
These in-home packages are perfect for patients who want the highest level of privacy, convenience, and personalized attention throughout their recovery.
We have two conveniently located clinics serving West and North Houston, based in Memorial / the Energy Corridor and The Woodlands, offering lymphatic drainage and post-operative therapy to River Oaks, Memorial Villages, Tanglewood, West University, Katy, Creekside Park, Carlton Woods, Sterling Ridge, Panther Creek, Spring, and surrounding high-income communities.
Give a Gift of Healing
Why Choose Us For Your Post-Op recovery?
Personalized Care That Meet Your Unique Needs
Safe And Proven Techniques
Complementary Surgery Garment Assistance
Educational Support and Home Care Guidance
Rewards Program
Earn Points
Join our rewards program and earn a point every time you book an appointment at our clinic.
Earn Discounts
Get $15 OFF after your 4th visit!
Redeem Points
Use your discount immediately, or convert your rewards into gift cards for friends or family.
Praises By Our Patients
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Post Surgery Treatments in The Woodlands
Our post operative lymphatic drainage and scar tissue treatments are also available at our Woodlands clinic, 5 Grogans Park Drive, Suite 107, serving Creekside Park, Carlton Woods, Sterling Ridge, Panther Creek, Spring and Conroe, and at Memorial / Energy Corridor.
Reviewed by Carolina Pintos, PT
Licensed physical therapist, founder of Carolina Pintos Therapy, trusted by 100+ Houston plastic surgeons for post-surgical lymphatic care. The product descriptions, study citations and screening criteria on this page were written and reviewed by Carolina and the clinic’s therapist team. Reviewed September 2026.
More on post-surgical recovery
- Lymphatic massage after a tummy tuck: timeline and what to expect.
- Should lymphatic drainage hurt? Why forcing fluid out sets you back.
- BBL recovery massage: what gets worked, and what must be left alone.
- Manual lymphatic drainage after surgery.
- Incisional drainage massage and scar tissue.
- Seroma after a tummy tuck: how to tell one from normal swelling.
- Swelling after a tummy tuck: what is normal, what is not, and what actually helps.
- Lea esta página en español: masaje post operatorio y drenaje linfático en Houston →
- Tummy tuck recovery week by week: what you can actually do, and when.
- Lipo foam vs ab board: what each one actually does.
- Dog ears after a tummy tuck: what massage can and cannot do.
- Mommy makeover recovery timeline: why it is two recoveries, not one.
- Why hot stones and heating pads are dangerous during recovery.
Who would benefit most from getting our post operative lymphatic and scar tissue therapy treatment?
Post operative lymphatic and scar tissue therapy treatment is ideal for those:
- Individuals recovering from surgery: Enhances recovery by reducing swelling and promoting the removal of surgical waste and toxins.
- Patients with visible scar tissue: Helps soften and improve the appearance and elasticity of scar tissue resulting from surgeries such as mastectomies, heart surgery, or cosmetic procedures.
- Those experiencing post-surgical pain: Facilitates effective pain management and reduces discomfort associated with various surgeries, including back surgery, mastectomies, and extensive reconstructive surgeries.
- Individuals with limited mobility post-surgery: Improves range of motion, reduces fluid buildup and stiffness, especially beneficial following surgeries affecting mobility like shoulder or hip replacement.
- Patients at risk for post-surgical complications: Supports the reduction of complications like seromas or lymphoceles, particularly following invasive procedures like vascular surgeries or organ transplants.
- Those undergoing cosmetic surgeries: Enhances aesthetic outcomes and decreases healing time for procedures like liposuction, tummy tucks, and facelifts.
- Patients with prolonged inflammation after surgery: Assists in managing and reducing chronic inflammation, crucial for speeding up the healing process after extensive procedures like reconstructive surgeries or those related to cancer treatment.
- Individuals needing accelerated healing: Promotes faster tissue repair and regeneration, essential for shortening the recovery period after surgeries involving large incisions, such as open-heart surgery or spinal surgery.
- Elderly patients recovering from surgery: Particularly beneficial in enhancing recovery in older adults, improving outcomes for surgeries like hip replacements, hernia repairs, or any procedure where slower healing may occur due to age.
What the Carolina Pintos post-surgery treatment process?
At Carolina Pintos Therapy, our commitment to providing personalized care to our patients involves developing a tailored treatment plan that addresses their unique physiological needs. We initiate our post-cosmetic surgery treatment plan during the acute inflammatory stage, which typically occurs 1-2 days after surgery. At this stage, we employ post-surgical lymphatic drainage to aid in reducing inflammation and swelling. As patients progress beyond this stage, usually around the second week after surgery, we introduce a more intense post-surgical massage that includes fascia release techniques. To further facilitate recovery, we utilize High-Speed Vibration Technology, to release scar tissue that has formed. Subsequently, we introduce radiofrequency, suction cups, and a suction machine to improve the appearance of scar tissue and the overall quality of tissue. Ultra cavitation may also be introduced in specific areas if deemed necessary. Our goal is to provide comprehensive care to our patients throughout their post-surgery recovery process, ensuring a successful outcome.
Is a post surgery lymphatic massage similar to a deep tissue massage?
No. A deep tissue massage works on the muscular system, whereas a post-op lymphatic drainage massage targets the lymphatic system. Deep tissue massage and heat are not beneficial and are not recommended after cosmetic surgery (like liposuction, breast lift or/and augmentation, facelift, neck lift, tummy tuck, brachioplasty, thigh lift, body lift, BBL, etc.). Although it may seem that deep tissue massage would assist in decreasing the hardness following plastic surgery, it actually increases inflammation and makes it harder to evacuate the lymph fluid. In summary, do not get a deep tissue massage; get a post-surgery lymphatic massage instead. Even though a lymphatic massage is extremely light, it is the most efficient way to reduce swelling and bruising and promote healing.
What to expect after your post-surgery massage and treatment?
After your post-surgery massage and treatment, you can expect to reduce your recovery time, eliminate toxins and body fluid buildup, and feel better overall. You may also notice an improvement in your energy level and an increase in your range of motion. Additionally, the post-surgery machine treatment will also help reduce the formation of unwanted scar tissue and other postoperative complications.
How many massages or machine treatments will I need after my surgery procedure?
To prepare for a surgical procedure, it’s recommended to receive at least one or two lymphatic massage treatments. After your cosmetic surgery, we suggest getting a post-operative lymphatic massage every other day for two weeks. Patients who undergo multiple procedures simultaneously, such as liposuction and a tummy tuck, BBL and tummy tuck, or a mommy makeover, will require extended treatment to accommodate for the added recovery time. The use of medical machines will depend on your inflammatory stage, health condition, and treatment goals, which will be discussed with the lead therapist during your consultation or treatment.
What is the total cost of treatment?
Our services include Post Surgery Lymphatic Massages, which are priced at $134 per session. These massages are an essential part of the recovery process after cosmetic surgery, helping to reduce swelling and promote healing. Once you’ve progressed in your recovery, we use medical equipment in conjunction with the treatment to yield even better results. This phase of the treatment is priced at $169 per session.
We understand that some patients may have difficulty commuting to our clinic, especially during the immediate recovery period. To address this, we offer in-home post-op massage sessions for $290, providing our expert care in the comfort of your own home.
Your lead therapist will determine the number of sessions needed based on your unique situation. It’s worth noting that we have a loyalty program to help reduce your costs. On every third session, you’ll receive $25 in loyalty rewards, which you can use towards other services or even gift to a friend or family member (points expire in 12 months).
Do I need a prescription for a lymphatic massage treatment?
No. Although many doctors recommend lymphatic massage, it is also perfectly fine to self-refer.
When should you avoid post-op massage?
If you have an active infection, a blood clot, or if your doctor has advised you to avoid outside treatments following your surgery, you should refrain from receiving post-operative massage.
Is it too late to begin post-op massage or treatment if it has been a few weeks or months after my surgery?
No, absolutely not. The healing process for cosmetic procedures can take several months. Even if it has been months since your procedure, you can still benefit from post-op treatments to aid in the recovery process.
Surgery recovery is a crucial process that should be taken seriously to ensure that no complications arise. Even if some time has passed since your procedure, post-operative treatment and massage can still be beneficial in helping the healing process.
What is included and what should I expect with my treatment?
During the pre-treatment assessment, we will explain your current post-op state and provide an estimate of how many sessions and what types of treatments will be necessary for you to recover as effectively as possible. We will then create a customized therapy treatment plan that includes different types of massages and the use of medical machines to address any post-surgery complications such as scar tissue. In addition to the in-office treatment, we will provide you with a list of cupping and stretching techniques that you can do at home to improve mobility, release fascia, and promote healing. We will also assist with garment fitting, including teaching you how to properly wear lipo foams and boards and ensuring that you have the right size of compression garments. As part of the recovery process, we will educate you about the different inflammatory stages and provide a list of dos and don’ts to prevent complications like blood clotting.
How is post-surgery lymphatic massage different from regular lymphatic drainage massage?
After cosmetic surgery, the tissue undergoes trauma, and this requires a different approach in lymphatic massage. Post-operative lymphatic massage employs a specific pressure that accounts for this trauma, which is different from regular lymphatic drainage massage. Additionally, post-surgery lymphatic massage may involve rerouting the lymph fluid and focusing on the affected areas, whereas regular lymphatic drainage massage typically covers the entire body.
What surgeries may require a post-op massage or treatment?
After undergoing invasive cosmetic surgery such as liposuction, breast lift, breast implants, facelift, neck lift, tummy tuck, mommy makeover, brachioplasty, thigh lift, body lift, Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), or C-section, post-operative massage and treatment may be necessary for proper recovery and to prevent inflammation or scar tissue formation. Additionally, medical massage treatments may also be recommended for those recovering from cancer treatments to help boost immune system function.
Do Fajas really work?
Fajas, or compression garments, can be beneficial in certain situations, particularly during post-operative recovery from cosmetic surgery. They are designed to provide consistent pressure on the treated area, offering several advantages. Wearing a faja can help minimize swelling and inflammation during the recovery process, as the consistent pressure aids in reducing these symptoms. In addition, fajas can encourage better blood circulation, which may contribute to a quicker recovery and lower the risk of complications.
By providing gentle compression, fajas can also support the healing process, ensuring that surgical incisions remain in place for smoother healing and potentially reducing the appearance of scars. Furthermore, fajas can enhance comfort after surgery by offering additional support and stability to the body.
It is essential to note that individual results may vary, and the effectiveness of fajas can depend on factors such as the specific surgical procedure, the individual’s body type, and the quality of the garment. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified medical professional for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of fajas in your specific situation.
Can post surgery treatment or massage be bad during my liposuction recovery or cosmetic surgery recovery ?
Post-surgery massage and treatment are essential for fast and proper healing. The technique and use of proper machines play a significant role in achieving the best results and relief. When administered correctly, post-operative treatment provides numerous benefits, including improving the healing process, reducing scar tissue buildup, enhancing skin elasticity, reducing swelling, and improving range of motion, among others. Therefore, post-operative treatment is a must.
However, we advise against wet drainages, also known as Colombia massages, and wood therapy during your liposuction or cosmetic surgery recovery. We find these treatments to be too invasive and harsh on the body after surgery, posing a significant risk of infection.
Click HERE to learn why you
should avoid incisional drainage
(aka Colombian Drainage)
Is massage after surgery safe?
If you’ve recently undergone surgery, you may be wondering when it’s safe to begin receiving medical massages. While some people prefer to wait until they are able to drive themselves to appointments, it is possible to start receiving post-op lymphatic massages as early as 24 hours after surgery. However, before beginning any post-surgery procedures, it’s important to check with your doctor to ensure they are safe for your recovery.
At our clinic, we offer post-operative lymphatic massages to promote healing, reduce swelling, and prevent scar tissue buildup. Our experienced therapists use specialized techniques and medical equipment to optimize your results and relieve discomfort. Your lead therapist will determine the number of sessions required to aid your unique recovery process.
For those who have difficulty commuting to our clinic, especially during the immediate recovery period, we also offer in-home post-operative massage sessions for $290. This service brings our expert care to the comfort of your own home.
It’s worth noting that we offer a loyalty program where you can earn $25 in loyalty rewards on every third session to reduce your overall cost.
How soon after my surgery can one get a post-op lymphatic massage??
If you’ve recently undergone surgery, you may be wondering when it’s safe to begin receiving lymphatic massages. While some people prefer to wait until they are able to drive themselves to appointments, it is possible to start receiving lymphatic massage as early as 24 hours after surgery. However, before beginning any post-surgery procedures, it’s important to check with your doctor to ensure they are safe for your recovery.
For those who have difficulty commuting to our clinic, especially during the immediate recovery period, we also offer in-home post-operative massage sessions for $290. This service brings our expert care to the comfort of your own home.
It’s worth noting that we offer a loyalty program where you can earn $25 in loyalty rewards on every third session to reduce your overall cost.
What is the Carolina Pintos recommendation or opinion on draining the surgical wound site, also known as wet drainages or Colombian drainage?
One important aspect of our approach is that we do not perform wet drainages at our clinic. This technique involves opening the incision and applying pressure to push fluid out, but it can actually increase the inflammatory process. The body responds by producing more fluid, which prolongs the inflammatory process and leads to more fibrosis, more fluid buildup, and prolonged healing time. Additionally, wet drainages increase the risk of infection because they involve opening the incision.
Instead of wet drainages, we focus on stimulating the lymphatic system through a modified form of lymphatic drainage massage. Our therapists use light pressure and long, rhythmic strokes to move lymphatic fluid toward lymph nodes, helping to reduce swelling and inflammation. In cases where rerouting of fluid is necessary due to removed lymph nodes, or surgical scars, our therapists are trained to use their knowledge of lymph vessel passages to reroute the fluid to another lymph node.
In conclusion, wet drainages are not ideal for post-operative care and should not be called lymphatic drainages because they do not have an effect on the lymphatic system. At Carolina Pintos Therapy, we prioritize the health and well-being of our patients, and that’s why we utilize techniques that have been shown to be effective and safe for post-operative recovery.
Click HERE to learn why you must avoid wet drainage(aka Colombian Drainage)