18 May How can lymphatic drainage massage help post-DIEP surgery?
Any type of surgery carries a variety of risks and recovery protocols with it – to maintain your wellbeing and results following the procedure. When you undergo breast reconstruction surgery following a diagnosis cancer, there are understandably a lot of additional concerns and questions about what will happen afterwards. The emotional impact of the diagnosis and treatment needed can also feel difficult, alongside concerns about future recovery and any side-effects can all have a lasting impact on patients.
As a therapeutic massage practitioner I work both directly with women following DIEP breast reconstruction and with a number of specialists who refer to me their patients for specialised post-surgical care.
Although I’ve been working in this area for some time, it’s always remarkable to see how much of a difference specialised massage can have both on recovery times and overall wellbeing.
What is DIEP flap surgery?
DIEP flap surgery is one of the most popular and successful types of breast reconstruction surgery carried out following a mastectomy. The procedure involves taking skin, fatty tissue and blood vessels from the abdomen and does not cut into or remove abdominal tissue like previously used techniques, promoting a shorter recovery time and more natural-looking results for patients. The initial recovery time for DIEP breast reconstruction is around 6-8 weeks, with total recovery (fading of scars) usually occurring within one year.
Benefits of massage post-surgery
Therapeutic massage has long been recommended alongside a variety of aftercare treatments post-surgery to help smooth and speed-up the healing process and support the development of healthier scar tissue. Benefits of post-surgical massage include:
- Enhanced lymphatic drainage
- Reduced bruising/swelling/inflammation
- Reduced pain/discomfort
- Softening of scar tissue
- Increased mobility
- Prevention of excess scar tissue development
- Reduced appearance of scars
- Regeneration of tissues
- Relaxation and stress reduction
How can massage support DIEP recovery?
Massage has a number of incredible benefits for women following DIEP surgery. As it is versatile and non-invasive with no side-effects, it’s accessible to most patients and can have a significant impact on wellbeing and quality of life as you recover.
One of the main ways massage supports the body post-DIEP surgery is through the stimulation of the lymphatic system, which drains away excess fluid and toxins to promote cleaner, smoother healing and recovery of the tissues and skin. It also helps to reduce swelling, pain and discomfort in the area which can in turn minimise the amount of painkillers and drugs needed to manage your symptoms after surgery.
On an emotional level massage can also help you to better reconnect with your body and your new breast, as well as promoting deep relaxation and calm to support your mental health as you recover.
What to expect from a post-surgical massage
All therapeutic massage treatments with me are targeted to your individual needs – so we’ll start with a brief consultation to help me to understand your current situation and concerns and develop the best approach for you. The massage itself is gentle and light, using sweeping rhythmic strokes in a targeted manner to work directly with the blood and lymph systems and connective tissues. I also incorporate the use of music, aromatherapy and natural butters and oils to promote deeper healing and relaxation.