MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE or LYMPHATIC MASSAGE
Michelle Licha-Oros Scar + Lymph Wellness, Bend, Oregon
Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) 

What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, specialized massage technique designed to stimulate and redirect lymphatic fluid and interstitial waste from congested or injured tissues into functioning lymph vessels and nodes. These vessels are located just beneath the skin and play a crucial role in supporting the body’s fluid balance, immune system, and tissue healing. 

 

Why It Matters for You

After surgery, injury, radiation, or trauma, the lymphatic system often gets disrupted—causing swelling (edema), bruising, increased scar formation, fascial tension, and prolonged healing. 
When swelling persists:

• Tissues are stretched and stressed

• Scar and adhesion formation increases

• Fascia, muscles, nerves, and lymph vessels can become restricted
  By gently clearing fluid and supporting healthy lymph pathways, MLD helps restore motion, reduce post‑operative fatigue, and encourage efficient healing.

 

How MLD Works at Scar + Lymph Wellness

• Light, rhythmic touch directed along lymph pathways to move fluid away from congested areas. 

• Targeted zones including post‑surgical sites, hematoma/bruise areas, orthopedic and breast surgery scars, oncology/radiation‑affected tissue, and lymphedema‑prone regions.

• Therapy timing: MLD may begin as early as 48 hours post surgery (with your physician’s approval) and continues into the maintenance phase of lymphedema care.

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Who Can Benefit?

• Individuals recovering from any type of surgery, trauma (whiplash, hematoma), or chronic swelling

• Oncology clients with post‑surgical or radiation‑induced edema/fibrosis

• Clients with lymphedema (maintenance phase) and those seeking to prevent scar‑related restrictions

• Anyone experiencing prolonged swelling, bruising, restricted mobility, or persistent tightness after surgery

• Side effects of whiplash, traumatic brain injuries.

• Migraines, sinus headaches and autoimmune disorders

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Benefits You May Notice

• Reduced swelling, heaviness, and fluid retention. 

• Improved tissue mobility, less fascial restriction, and smoother scar integration.

• Enhanced comfort, decreased pain or tension, improved sleep and relaxation. 

• Faster recovery after surgery, trauma or radiation therapy.

• Improved immune function and overall tissue health by supporting lymph flow. 

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Important Contraindications & Timing

If you are currently undergoing chemotherapy, actively infected, or have uncontrolled heart or kidney conditions, consult your physician before starting MLD. 
For radiation sites: stay at least 4‑6 weeks post treatment or follow your oncologist's guidance before MLD.

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Schedule Your Session

Call or text: 970‑509‑0348
Email: michellelicha@yahoo.com
Private practice in Bend, Oregon — serving clients from Central Oregon and beyond.

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