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Gentle Healing Touch

Manual Lymphatic Drainage in London

A slow, relaxing treatment using gentle light-touch movements to activate lymph and interstitial fluid circulation. Excellent for fluid retention, post-surgery recovery, and deep relaxation.

Trusted by Olympic Champions • Open 7 Days • Post-Surgery Recovery Specialists

Understanding MLD

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual lymphatic drainage is a slow relaxing treatment where the fingers and hands move in gentle light-touch subtle movements activating the lymph and interstitial fluid circulation. The complete body can be treated and this is excellent for fluid retention and relaxation as the parasympathetic nervous system is stimulated. Specific areas of the body can also be drained according to the condition being treated.

All manual lymph drainage techniques have specific similarities in that the fingers and hands move the skin in rhythmic movements encouraging the lymphatic vessels to contract in a more organized way. Repetitive light movements are used and these are adjusted according to the type of tissue being worked.

MLD can be of great benefit for lymphoedemas caused by surgery where lymph nodes or lymph vessels have been removed for example during the removal of carcinomas. During the healing stages after various cosmetic surgery such as abdominoplasty, liposuction MLD can increase the healing rate of the area and thus increase the speed with which the client can recover.

Conditions Treated

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Benefits

Manual Lymphatic Drainage, MLD is used by patients to benefit conditions such as:

Fluid Retention & Oedema

Effectively reduces fluid retention, aching limbs, and oedema. Helps manage swelling throughout the body for improved comfort and mobility.

Post-Surgery Recovery

Ideal after liposuction, abdominoplasty and cosmetic surgery. Increases healing rate and helps you recover faster with less discomfort.

Immune System Support

Stimulates the immune system and helps with chronic fatigue syndrome (ME), fibromyalgia, and general tiredness.

Conditions We Treat with Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Fluid retention • Aching limbs • Oedema • Multiple Sclerosis • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME) & Fibromyalgia • Weight loss assistance • Adiposis and Cellulite • Immune system support • Stress • Tiredness • Sprains • Arthritis • Post Liposuction/Abdominoplasty recovery • Headaches & Migraine • Insomnia • Poor memory • Cellulite reduction

Lymphoedema Treatment

Lymphoedema after cancer treatment

The aim of treatment for lymphoedema with Manual Lymphatic Drainage is to relieve discomfort and improve function by reducing swelling and to prevent more build-up of fluid. Lymph drainage is also performed after liposuction surgeries and post cancerous lymphoedemas.

A lot can be done to manage lymphoedema, but it is a long-term problem. Although the swelling can usually be reduced, there is always a risk of it coming back. It may take several weeks or months before you notice any real improvement, but with treatment the affected part of the body should become less swollen, easier to move and less uncomfortable.

Arm after breast cancer treatment

Leg if cancer affects groin or pelvis nodes

Chest or abdomen swelling

Face swelling (if neck nodes affected)

Book Your Session

Meet Katherina.

5-star hotel trained therapist with over 20 years experience.

EXPERIENCE SINCE

2001 – Over 20 years

TRAINED AT

The Sanderson, One Aldwych, Sofitel Hotels

Her background

Katherina Zur, manual lymphatic drainage therapist: Katherina started as a complementary and beauty therapist in 2001. She has worked in many well known 5* hotels including The Sanderson, One Aldwych and Sofitel Hotels.

Her qualifications

She is fully qualified in Anatomy, Physiology, Body Massage, Indian Head Massage, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Pregnancy Massage and Reflexology. She is fully insured with ITPI.

Why Choose Us

Why choose our Manual Lymphatic Drainage clinic?

5-Star Hotel Trained

Our therapist trained at London’s finest hotels including The Sanderson and One Aldwych.

Post-Cancer Specialists

Experienced in treating lymphoedema following cancer treatment with medical approval.

Cosmetic Surgery Recovery

Speed up healing after liposuction, abdominoplasty and other cosmetic procedures.

Olympic Champions Trust Us

Our clinic is trusted by elite athletes for recovery and performance optimization.

Open 7 Days a Week

Convenient appointments including weekends. Emergency slots often available.

Established Since 1991

Over 30 years of experience helping patients with lymphatic health and recovery.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About MLD

What does Manual Lymphatic Drainage feel like?

MLD is a very gentle, relaxing treatment. The therapist uses light, rhythmic movements that feel like gentle waves across your skin. Many clients find it so relaxing they fall asleep during treatment. Unlike deep tissue massage, there is no pain or discomfort – just soothing, repetitive movements that encourage lymph flow.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your condition. For general detox or relaxation, a single session or short course of 3-4 treatments may be sufficient. For lymphoedema management, you may need regular ongoing sessions. For post-surgery recovery, we typically recommend 3-6 sessions depending on the procedure. Your therapist will discuss a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Can MLD help with cellulite?

Yes, Manual Lymphatic Drainage is popular for reducing cellulite and as a regular treatment to maintain improvement. By improving lymphatic circulation and reducing fluid retention in the tissues, MLD can help improve the appearance of cellulite. For best results, a course of treatments is recommended alongside healthy lifestyle choices.

Is MLD safe after cancer treatment?

Yes, MLD is widely used to manage lymphoedema after cancer treatment. It is not possible to replace lymph nodes that have been removed or lymphatic vessels that have been damaged, but MLD can help reduce and control the swelling. Before treatment of post-cancer lymphoedema, we will request your doctor’s permission to perform the treatment on the affected areas under the condition that the cancer is successfully treated.

When can I have MLD after cosmetic surgery?

MLD is typically recommended starting around 3-7 days after procedures like liposuction or abdominoplasty, once any drains have been removed and your surgeon gives approval. Early MLD can significantly speed up your recovery by reducing swelling, bruising and discomfort. We recommend consulting with your cosmetic surgeon about the ideal timing for your specific procedure.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Clinics Near You

With osteopathy, physiotherapy and MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE clinics in kings cross and Shoreditch, we are conveniently located for Central London, the City, North, Moorgate, West, South and East London. Our Pentonville Road clinic is serving Islington, Moorgate, Kings Cross, Euston, St Pancras, Moorgate, West end, Camden, City, Chelsea, Harley Street, Kensington, Knightsbridge and post codes: N1, W1, W2, W8, NW1, WC1, WC2, EC1, EC2, EC3, EC4, SE1.

Our Hoxton clinic is serving Shoreditch, City, Hackney, Canary Wharf, Liverpool Street Moorgate and post codes: EC1, EC2, EC3, EC4, E1, E2, N1.

Nearest tube stations: Old Street, Shoreditch High Street, Moorgate and Liverpool Street.

GENTLE HEALING

Ready to experience Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Book your MLD session today. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing lymphoedema, or simply seeking deep relaxation, our expert therapist is here to help.

325-327 Old Street, London EC1V 9LE • Mon-Fri: 9am-8pm | Sat: 10am-5pm | Sun: 10am-4pm

Related Therapies

Explore Our Other Services

Kobido Massage

Japanese facial massage for natural face-lift effects.

Pregnancy Massage

Safe, nurturing massage for expectant mothers.

Reflexology

Foot massage therapy for whole-body wellness.

Indian Head Massage

Traditional therapy for head, neck and shoulders.

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