Long hours at a desk, standing at work, salty food or hormonal phases can lead to legs that feel heavier by evening, swollen ankles and a tight tummy. Lymphatic drainage is a relaxing treatment that supports lymph flow when these complaints are linked to fluid build-up. At our salon it is not done by hand: we use a device that works with an air-pressure treatment garment (a full suit), on its own or as part of a body contouring plan.
What Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and nodes that collects excess fluid from between tissues and returns it to the circulation. Unlike blood circulation it has no pump; lymph moves largely with movement and breathing. In device-based lymphatic drainage (also known as pressotherapy), the chambers of the air-channel garment inflate and deflate in sequence; these rhythmic pressure waves move upwards from the feet and support the flow of fluid towards the lymph nodes. Pressure is set to your comfort, you lie back and rest throughout, and most people find it relaxing.
For more on lymphatic drainage, read what is lymphatic drainage massage.
What Is It Used For?
- Heavy, swollen legs: the fullness that builds by evening, especially for people who sit or stand for long periods.
- Fluid-related bloating: tightness before your period, in hot weather or after salty food. More: abdominal lymphatic drainage.
- After long journeys: the extra fullness in the legs after days spent sitting for long periods.
- Supporting a body contouring plan: alongside Magic Shape or G5 massage to address fluid and puffiness.
- Relaxation: a general feeling of lightness from the rhythmic pressure while you lie back and rest.
What to Expect and What Not to Expect
| Can help with | Should not be expected |
|---|
| Relief from swelling and puffiness | Burning fat or weight loss |
| Lighter-feeling legs | Resolving a medical condition |
| Supporting a body contouring plan | Clearing the look of cellulite on its own |
If a more contoured look is the goal, lymphatic drainage is planned alongside Magic Shape; G5 massage can be added for the look of cellulite. See our G5 massage and lymphatic drainage guide for using them together.
How a Session Works
- Consultation: we talk about your complaint, health and any medication, and check whether the treatment suits you.
- Preparation: you change into disposable clothing and the air-channel treatment garment (full suit) is fitted.
- Treatment: the device works with pressure waves that move upwards from the feet and are set to your comfort; you lie back and rest throughout.
- Afterwards and planning: we suggest drinking water and taking a short walk. Sessions are usually planned once a week, with frequency set to your needs.
Who Is It Not Suitable For?
Lymphatic drainage is not done with a fever or acute infection, heart failure or a serious heart condition, a history or suspicion of deep vein thrombosis (blood clot), ongoing cancer care or a serious kidney condition. During pregnancy, after surgery and with lymphoedema, it is only considered with a doctor's approval. For swelling that is sudden, one-sided, painful or red, see a doctor promptly.
After Your Session and Day to Day
- Drink enough water throughout the day.
- If you sit for long, get up and walk for a few minutes every hour.
- Cut back on salt and processed food.
- Rest with your legs raised for a while in the evening.
For causes of fluid retention and everyday tips, read how to reduce water retention. For all methods, see body contouring.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage at Renew & Revive Beauty
Our salon is on Abide-i Hürriyet Caddesi in Şişli. We plan your device-based lymphatic drainage around your needs after talking with you and checking suitability. To book, get in touch.
The information on this page is for general guidance and is not medical advice. Our salon offers beauty and care services, not medical procedures. Results vary from person to person.
