Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle, rhythmic skin-stretching technique that supports the natural flow of lymph through the body. Using light, precise movements, this method helps decongest tissues by moving stagnant fluid from swollen areas to healthy lymph nodes, promoting detoxification and reducing puffiness.
Originally developed in the 1930s by Dr. Emil and Estrid Vodder, this technique is now globally recognised for its therapeutic benefits. Beyond fluid drainage, the lymphatic system plays a key role in immune response and fat absorption. Unlike the circulatory system, it lacks its own pump—making movement, breath, and diet essential for healthy flow.
MLD is especially beneficial when the lymphatic system becomes sluggish due to sedentary lifestyle, stress, or poor diet—often leading to water retention, fatigue, low immunity, and frequent illness. This treatment encourages optimal lymphatic function, helping you feel lighter, refreshed, and more energised.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage may support those experiencing:
Immune & Respiratory Issues: Frequent colds and flu, allergies, hay fever
Head & Sinus Conditions: Migraines, sinus congestion or infections
Pre- & Post-Surgery Recovery*: Swelling, bruising, and healing support
Lymphatic & Circulatory Concerns: Water retention, puffiness (eyes, ankles, legs), sedentary lifestyle, lymphedema/lipoedema**
Fatigue & Energy: Low energy, glandular fever, chronic fatigue syndrome (ME)
Digestive & Weight-Related Issues: Bloating, sluggish digestion, support with overweight
Skin Health: Acne, eczema, and surgical scars
Stress-Related Symptoms: Anxiety, tension, poor sleep
Travel Support: Before or after long-haul flights
Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage:
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) offers a wide range of therapeutic benefits that go beyond physical wellness. This gentle yet powerful treatment stimulates the immune system, increases vitality, and supports the body’s natural healing processes. By improving lymph flow and reducing stagnation, MLD helps relieve puffiness, water retention, and inflammation while also enhancing digestion and respiratory function.
The calming, rhythmic movements activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting deep relaxation and helping to ease anxiety and emotional tension. Over time, regular MLD sessions can improve skin tone and tissue quality, offer pain relief, and support a general sense of wellbeing. Whether used for prevention, recovery, or as part of a wellness routine, MLD is a deeply restorative therapy for both body and mind.
MLD Pre and Post-Surgery
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is frequently recommended by surgeons to support both pre- and post-operative recovery. This gentle, specialised technique helps prepare the body before surgery and assists the healing process afterwards by reducing swelling, improving circulation, and accelerating tissue regeneration.
Before Surgery
MLD can be offered 24–48 hours prior to your procedure to stimulate the lymphatic system, support immunity, and reduce fluid retention — helping your body be in the best possible condition for recovery.
After Surgery
MLD is generally safe to begin from 5–7 days after surgery and can be beneficial up to 6 months post-procedure, as the healing process may take several months. It helps reduce post-operative swelling, bruising, and discomfort, while encouraging the elimination of waste products and fluids from the tissue.
Important to Note:
I offer post-surgical MLD from 6 weeks after your surgery, depending on your condition and individual needs. If you’re within the first 6 weeks post-op, I recommend seeking treatment from a therapist specifically trained and experienced in early post-operative care. Please consult your surgeon before beginning MLD treatments. All bookings for post-surgical support will be assessed case by case, and I reserve the right to refer you to a specialist or decline treatment if necessary to ensure your safety and optimal recovery.
Performed without oil, this technique uses light, rhythmic, skin-stretching movements to stimulate lymphatic circulation and encourage the natural detoxification process. The treatment is carried out with the client lying comfortably on the massage couch, undressed to underwear and fully covered with towels for warmth and privacy.
MLD is not a massage in the traditional sense — it does not target muscle tension. Instead, it works at the skin level, where the majority of lymphatic vessels are located, to promote drainage and reduce fluid retention. The method used is the renowned Vodder technique, which involves precise, slow, and repetitive movements that help guide lymph towards the lymph nodes.
While deeply calming and supportive for many health conditions, MLD is not suitable if you’re seeking deep pressure or muscular release. In that case, a De-Stress or Deep Tissue Massage would be more appropriate.
Treatment Options
MLD Bespoke – 40 or 60 minutes
Targeted treatment focusing on specific areas of concern (e.g., legs, abdomen, arms). Your session length will be suggested based on how many areas need attention.
Recommended for pre- and post-surgery care*
MLD Full Body – 75 minutes
A complete treatment that stimulates the entire lymphatic system. Ideal for general wellbeing, immune support, detoxification, fatigue, chronic inflammation, or when you’re feeling run down. A soothing and effective way to de-stress and reconnect with your body.
MLD Bespoke 40′ or 60′ – from £60 | MLD Full Body 75′ – £75 in Camberwell/Oval
MLD Bespoke 40′ or 60′ – from £70 | MLD Full Body 75′ – £85 in Marylebone
(please allow up to 10 minutes extra for your appointment).