Discover how lymphatic is impacted

The lymphatic system is often referred to as the unsung hero of the body's immune defence. It's a network of tissues and organs that work together to rid the body of toxins, waste, and other unwanted materials and to support immune function. 

The lymphatic system comprises a network of vessels, nodes, and organs. It helps maintain fluid balance, removes waste, protects against infection, and aids fat absorption in the digestive system.

Surgery can disrupt fascia, cut or damage lymphatic vessels, and affect other tissues, temporarily altering lymphatic fluid flow and potentially causing fluid to accumulate in surrounding regions, delaying the healing process. If not addressed, lymphatic flow may not fully return to its pre-surgery state, as increased fibroblast production and reduced tissue thickness reduce glide.

With cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, the proper function of the lymphatic system is further compromised because lymphatic pathways are removed. The post-op swelling can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months to recover if proper post-op care is not utilized. Receiving a post-op lymphatic massage can help accelerate recovery and achieve your goals.

The nervous system can remain more active and protective even after the body has healed. This heightened nerve activity may cause lymphatic vessels to contract, thereby reducing lymphatic drainage and prolonging inflammation and pain.

As tissue heals and fascia changes, scar tissue and adhesions may form within the connective tissue, affecting lymphatic drainage. What is visible on the skin is only part of the process; internally, scar tissue and fascia can continue to develop for up to two years. This development can pull on connective tissue, press on lymphatic vessels, and obstruct lymph flow in certain directions. Consequently, swelling may manifest above, below, or even far from the original scar.

Your surgeon may recommend Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) sessions 2-3 times per week for the first 4-6 weeks following your surgery, then decreasing to 1-2 times per week as your recovery progresses. This tailored approach can support your body’s natural healing process and promote a smoother recovery.

After surgery, MLD can help reduce swelling, bruising, and pain, facilitating movement during recovery. This gentle technique encourages your lymphatic system to facilitate fluid movement and aid in tissue healing.

Benefits of Post-op lymphatic drainage

• Accelerates lymphatic flow 
• Speeds up the healing process by reducing swelling and bruising
• Boosts the immune system
• Decreases scars and the build-up of fibrosis
• Reduces soreness post-procedure
• Relaxation and stress reliever
• Helps patients to get the best possible results from their cosmetic surgery or other surgery
• Reducing lymphodema risk
• Reduces the chances of peripheral neuropathy (nerve pain)

The Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS) is part of the involuntary nervous system. It slows your heart rate, boosts digestion and gland activity, and relaxes certain muscles. The PNS interacts with the sympathetic nervous system to regulate automatic bodily functions. When the PNS is active, your body enters a 'rest and digest' mode, increasing saliva and digestive activity while lowering your heart rate. Vagal tone, measured by high-frequency activity, shows how well the vagus nerve works. The vagus nerve is a major part of the PNS and helps you relax and recover by balancing the effects of the sympathetic nervous system, which causes stress responses. People with higher vagal tone can rest, heal, and recover more quickly.

Improving vagal tone may reduce inflammation, alleviate muscle tension and pain, and enhance circulation and lymphatic flow. It also sends signals that reduce inflammation, help you recover from stress, anxiety, and fear, and support your overall well-being.

Dolphin VNS is a safe clinical procedure that may help reduce stress and improve vagal tone.

Learn more about vagus nerve stimulation at https://www.dolphinmps.com/what-is-vagus-nerve/