Lymphatic Drainage Massage
A gentle, rhythmic technique to help reduce puffiness and water retention, support post-travel recovery and enhance a sense of lightness and calm. Tailored pressure and breathing cues guide the lymph to drain naturally.
Who it’s for
- Puffiness in face, ankles or abdomen
- Fluid retention post-travel or sedentary periods
- General wellness, relaxation and light detox support
- Adjunct care after certain medical/aesthetic treatments*
Benefits
- Helps reduce local swelling and heaviness
- Encourages circulation and lymph flow
- Soothes the nervous system; promotes calm
- Can support skin clarity and a fresh look
How it works
Gentle, precise strokes follow lymph pathways, paired with diaphragmatic breathing cues and proximal-to-distal sequencing (open, drain, then move). Pressure is light and non-painful.
Which option is right for me?
General Lymphatic Drainage (this page)
- Wellness focus (puffiness, travel swelling, relaxation)
- Light, rhythmic technique; non-clinical
- Great for maintenance and periodic resets
Medical / Post-Surgical Lymphatic Massage
- Specialised protocols after surgery (e.g., 360 lipo, tummy tuck, BBL)
- Timing coordinated with your surgeon’s guidance
- £140 per 60 mins · 10 for £1300
Aftercare tips
- Hydrate well for the next 24–48 hours
- Light movement (walks) helps maintain flow
- Avoid very hot baths/saunas the same day
- Wear supportive, non-restrictive clothing
Medical notes
We’ll screen for safety at consultation. Lymphatic massage is not suitable with active infection, fever, acute DVT, uncontrolled heart failure, severe kidney disease, or active cancer unless cleared by your medical team.
Post-operative care? Please book our Medical Lymphatic Massage.
Pricing (General Lymphatic Drainage)
Courses valid 12 months · shareable within a household on request.
Frequently asked
How quickly will I feel a difference?
Many clients report a lighter, less puffy feeling straight away, with further improvement over 24–48 hours.
Is the pressure deep?
No — lymphatic massage uses specific, gentle pressure and rhythmic sequences. It should feel soothing and non-painful.
How often should I book?
For general wellness: every 2–4 weeks. For focused goals (e.g., puffiness), a short series may be suggested initially.
Is it safe during pregnancy?
Yes, with adjustments and after a brief screening. We avoid supine positioning late in pregnancy and adapt areas/pressure.
Lymphatic Massage – What Is It?
Lymphatic drainage. It doesn’t sound the most indulgent of treatments but this therapeutic massage is pure detox. By gently, lightly and repetitively encouraging the flow of lymph towards the lymph glands a skilled sports massage therapist can reduce the toxins in your body, decrease water retention, improve skin health, increase your metabolic rate and boost your immune system – all by enhancing the body’s own natural processes. Not bad for a massage.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is a key component of the immune system. Lymph is a clear fluid which both delivers nutrients and, importantly, removes toxins and waste product from cells throughout the body. While there are more lymph vessels than blood vessels (almost double) – the lymph system does not have a powerful, centralised pump to keep things going. This means lymph fluid can build up, especially in the extremities, as it relies on muscle movement and pressure from blood vessels to get it where it needs to be – the lymph nodes. By manually encouraging lymph fluid to the lymph nodes, specialised massage can boost a sluggish system – eliminating excess fluid and toxins and encouraging healthy lymph flow more generally.
What are the benefits of lymphatic drainage treatment?
Improved immune function is the reason many people opt for lymphatic massage. By strengthening immune response, or the body’s ability to fight off infection, lymphatic massage can prevent colds and other illnesses or help speed a slow recovery. Another benefit is reduced water retention – if you experience swollen feet and ankles it may be down to your lymphatic system. Sedentary work and a lack of physical activity can exacerbate this condition, causing it to worsen over time. Regular lymphatic drainage can move excess fluid away from the extremities and ease the pressure of tissue swelling. A third, and less well-known, benefit of lymphatic drainage is improved skin health. A reduction in skin puffiness and swelling is a direct result of fluid drainage, while the systemic benefits of increased lymph flow can improve scar healing rates. It can even minimise the appearance of cellulite. Cellulite is often made worse by water retention – by expelling excess fluid and increasing blood flow the skin appears healthier and smoother.
What to expect on the day of the massage
This is a massage with a very specific therapeutic aim – but – relaxing and enjoying the experience as you usually would will enhance the health benefits. Perhaps counterintuitively lymphatic drainage is a very gentle treatment – extremely light pressure is applied – so it will differ considerably to deeper tissue treatments you may have had. Typically the therapist will begin at the feet and work upwards using long, repetitive and very gentle strokes. Afterwards you may feel tired and need to rest – it’s a good idea to book lymphatic drainage later in the day so you can go home directly. You may also be very thirsty – it’s very important to drink adequate water (6-8 glasses per pay minimum) in the hours and days following treatment.
How often should you have a lymphatic massage?
The frequency of lymphatic massage can vary depending on individual needs and circumstances. In general, a lymphatic massage is a gentle massage technique that aims to stimulate the lymphatic system to promote lymph flow and drainage. It can be beneficial for individuals with conditions such as lymphedema, chronic inflammation, or poor circulation.
For those receiving lymphatic massage for therapeutic purposes, the frequency of treatment may be determined by your therapist. They may recommend daily, weekly, or monthly sessions depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s response to treatment.
For those seeking lymphatic massage for general wellness or relaxation purposes, the frequency of treatment can vary. Some individuals may choose to have a lymphatic massage once a week or once a month, while others may only have it occasionally as needed.
It’s important to note that lymphatic massage should only be performed by a trained professional. Before starting any new health regimen, it’s always a good idea to consult with us to ensure it’s safe for you.
What are the key benefits of lymphatic massage?
Lymphatic massage, also known as lymphatic drainage massage, is a gentle form of massage that is designed to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. The lymphatic system is responsible for removing waste and toxins from the body, and lymphatic massage can help to facilitate this process. Here are some key benefits of lymphatic massage:
Lymphatic Massage Reduces Swelling
Reduces swelling and edema: Lymphatic massage can help to reduce swelling and edema (fluid buildup) in the body, particularly after surgery or injury.
Lymphatic Massage Boosts the Immune System
Boosts immune system: Lymphatic massage can boost the immune system by increasing the production of lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that help to fight off infections and disease.
Lymphatic Massage Improves Circulation
Improves circulation: Lymphatic massage can improve circulation throughout the body, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Lymphatic Massage Reduces Stress
Relieves stress and promotes relaxation: Lymphatic massage is a gentle and soothing form of massage that can help to relieve stress and promote relaxation.
Lymphatic Massage Reduces Pain
Reduces pain and stiffness: Lymphatic massage can help to reduce pain and stiffness in the body, particularly in the joints and muscles.
Lymphatic Massage Promotes Detoxification
Promotes detoxification: Lymphatic massage can help to promote detoxification by stimulating the lymphatic system to remove waste and toxins from the body.
Overall, lymphatic massage can be a beneficial form of therapy for those looking to improve their overall health and well-being. However, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional to determine if lymphatic massage is appropriate for your specific needs.
Is lymphatic massage a good idea post-surgery?
Yes, lymphatic massage can be a beneficial form of therapy after surgery. Post-surgical lymphatic massage can help to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and promote healing.
After surgery, there is often an accumulation of fluid in the affected area, which can lead to swelling, stiffness, and discomfort. Lymphatic massage can help to stimulate the lymphatic system, which is responsible for removing this excess fluid and waste from the body. By promoting lymphatic drainage, lymphatic massage can help to reduce swelling and improve healing time.
It is important to note that lymphatic massage should only be performed by a trained professionals at Santi Kensington who have extensive experience working with post-surgical patients. It is also important to wait until after the surgical incisions have healed before beginning lymphatic massage therapy.
How much does Lymphatic Massage cost?
The cost of lymphatic massage with our specialist trained therapists is £90 for one hour.
How many lymphatic massages do you need post – liposuction?
The number of lymphatic massages needed after liposuction can vary depending on the individual case and the extent of the procedure. However, in general, a series of several lymphatic massages are often recommended for post-liposuction recovery.
The purpose of lymphatic massage after liposuction is to stimulate the lymphatic system, which helps to reduce swelling, bruising, and inflammation, as well as improve circulation and remove excess fluid from the treated area. Typically, a series of 5-10 massages are recommended, starting a few days after the procedure and spaced out over several weeks.
It is important to discuss your post-operative recovery plan with your surgeon, including any recommendations for lymphatic massages or other types of post-operative care. They will be able to provide guidance specific to your individual needs and help you develop a plan that will optimize your recovery and help you achieve the best possible results.
Lymphatic Massage in London: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re looking for a way to improve your immune function, reduce inflammation, and promote overall wellness, lymphatic massage may be the solution you’ve been searching for. Lymphatic massage is a gentle, non-invasive technique that helps to promote lymphatic flow and stimulate the immune system. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of lymphatic massage in London and what to expect during a session.
What is Lymphatic Massage?
Lymphatic massage, also known as lymphatic drainage massage, is a technique that involves gentle, rhythmic strokes to stimulate the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is responsible for removing toxins and waste from the body and plays a crucial role in immune function. Lymphatic massage can help to promote lymphatic flow, reduce inflammation, and improve immune function.
Benefits of Lymphatic Massage
There are numerous benefits to lymphatic massage, including:
Improved immune function: Lymphatic massage helps to stimulate the immune system and promote lymphatic flow, which can help to remove toxins and waste from the body.
Reduced inflammation: Lymphatic massage can help to reduce inflammation by promoting lymphatic flow and flushing out excess fluids.
Enhanced healing: Lymphatic massage can help to improve circulation and promote the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the body’s tissues, which can enhance healing.
Improved skin health: Lymphatic massage can help to promote lymphatic flow in the face and neck, which can help to reduce puffiness, dark circles, and improve skin tone.
Reduced stress and anxiety: Lymphatic massage can be deeply relaxing and can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
What to Expect During a Lymphatic Massage Session
During a lymphatic massage session, you will typically lie on a massage table, and the therapist will use gentle, rhythmic strokes to stimulate the lymphatic system. The strokes are typically light and circular, and the therapist will focus on specific areas of the body, such as the neck, face, arms, legs, and abdomen. A lymphatic massage session is typically very relaxing and may last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Choosing a Lymphatic Massage Therapist in London
If you’re interested in trying lymphatic massage in London, there are many options available. It’s important to choose a therapist who is trained and experienced in lymphatic massage techniques. At Santi Kensington our therapists are exceptional with a decade of experience.
Lymphatic massage is a gentle, non-invasive technique that can help to improve immune function, reduce inflammation, and promote overall wellness. If you’re interested in trying lymphatic massage in London, Santi in South Kensington provides a safe warm haven.