Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)
There are treatments designed for many different pathologies, but essentially MLD is helping the body recover faster by stimulating lymph flow and drainage mechanisms.
What is Manual Lymph Drainage?
When you hear “lymphatic drainage massage,” you might expect there is just one type of treatment. In fact, there are several different lymphatic drainage methods and schools, each with its own approach and techniques.
Two treatments that are getting most of attention today are Vodder Method Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage. Even though both focus on lymphatic system, they are different techniques. Therefore, the experience and results may be quite different as well.
You Should Avoid Lymphatic Drainage if You Have:
An active infection or fever (it’s best to wait until you’re feeling better before having MLD, as lymphatic drainage might spread the virus more quickly through the body). For your comfort and safety, we recommend rescheduling until you have recovered
Active Herpes Simplex
Acute Thrombosis (DVT) (MLD might dislodge a blood clot, leading to potentially life-threatening complications like a pulmonary embolism)
Congestive Heart Failure or other serious cardiac conditions, (MLD can increase fluid volume in the circulatory system, which could overwhelm a heart that is already compromised)
Untreated Cancer (consult with your oncologist)
Clients who have Active Lymphoma
Kidney Failure or Active Kidney Disease
Conditions MLD Can Treat
- Post Operation/Surgery & Aesthetic Surgery
- Joint Replacement Surgery
- Joint Injuries
- Lipedema
- Migraines & Headaches
- Injuries to Soft Tissues
- Chronic Sinus Congestion
- Lymphedema
- Post-Natal Recovery, (C-section, swelling due to IV and epidural)
- Constipation, Bloating & Digestive Issues
- Whiplash
- Strokes
- Fibromyalgia
- Traumatic Eye Injury
- Tinnitus
- Meniere's Disease
- Tennis & Golfers Elbow
- Osteoarthritis
- Bronchitis, COPD, Cystic Fibrosis & Post-COVID
- Burns
- Fluid Retention
- Certain Chronic Conditions: some people develop persistent swelling because of lymphatic or vascular problems like CVI.
Two Different Techniques
DR. Vodder and Brazilian Method for Lymphatic Drainage
The Vodder Method: Clinically Established Therapeutic Approach Used in Rehabilitation Setting
Technique style:
- Light pressure
- Hands movements to gently stretch the skin (stationary circles, pump, scoop, rotary)
- Follows anatomical pathways
- Always working with lymph direction
- Oil is not used
- It is not intended to provide immediate aesthetic results.
Best suited for the clients with these medical conditions:
- Post-surgery recovery (including cosmetic procedure)
- Migraines and headaches, concussion
- Any kind of fluid retention or lymphoedema
- Chronic sinus congestion
- Chronic inflammation
- Fibromyalgia
- Sensitive or compromised conditions
Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage: An Aesthetic-focused Technique Designed to Enhance Body Contours and Create Instant Cosmetic Improvements.
Technique style:
- Stronger and more energetic pressure
- Faster strokes and rhythm
- More vigorous pace
- Focus on directing fluid to create visible shaping
- May use tools such as wooden rollers or vacuum cupping
- May use oil
Best suited for healthy clients who are looking for aesthetic results:
- Body countering and sculping
- Visible results after the treatment (like temporary slimming or flatter stomach before a specific even)
- Cosmetic focus – “instant glow up” treatment
- Improving the appearance of cellulite
- Quick de-bloating
Rates
We require 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule massage appointments. Please note, you will be charged 100% of the massage appointment for missed and no show treatments.
$80.00 HST incl.
$102.00 HST incl.
$122.00 HST incl.
Who Can I Book
For This Treatment?
Which One Should You Choose?
If your goal is healing, recovery, or clinical care, the Vodder Method offers a reliable approach to support the body’s natural healing and lymphatic function.
If you want visible shaping and instant results, the Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage, may be more aligned with your expectations.
Please Keep In Mind
Before Your Make Your Appointment
Jasmina Paulis is a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) and a Dr. Vodder Certified Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) Therapist, Level 3.
Jasmina is not trained in Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage.
If your main goal is immediate cosmetic results or body contouring, the Dr. Vodder Method may not be the right fit for your needs and expectations.
How Manual Lymphatic Drainage Works
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) helps move excess fluid that has built up in the tissue when the lymphatic system is unable to clear it efficiently and needs extra support.
- It is light-pressure technique that helps promote lymph flow along your body’s natural lymphatic drainage pathways.
- During treatment, the therapist uses slow, circular and rhythmic motions to gently stretch and release the skin to stimulate the natural pumping action of the lymphatic vessels.
- Oil is not used because hands need to stretch the skin rather than slide over it.
- It is not intended to provide immediate or primarily aesthetic results.
If someone has a medical condition, MLD should only be performed by a Licensed Therapist with training in Lymphatic Techiniques.
Lymphatic Drainage can be booked with Jasmina Paulis, RMT and Certified in Dr. Vodder Method of Lymphatic Drainage Therapist Level 3. This advanced treatment is designed for clients recovering from cancer surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation or other seriously compromised lymphatic system conditions.
She does not provide Brazilian Lympahtic Drainage.
Want To Book Now?
You can book your appointments online easily with the button below.
Enjoy the Benefits of Booking with us:
- Direct Billing (Insurance Included)
- Progress Updates
- At Home Exercises
- SMS Reminders
- Easily Book, Change or Cancel Appointments
Frequently Asked Questions
Most Frequent Questions & Answers About MLD
How many sessions are typically needed to see improvement in a condition?
- Post-surgical clients (including cosmetic surgeries) often need multiple sessions within the first few weeks to manage swelling and speed up recovery. An effective way to begin is often with 5–6 sessions, usually spaced about three days apart.
- Those with chronic long-standing health conditions like headaches, migraines, sinus congestion, lymphedema or autoimmune conditions might benefit from having treatments more frequently, such as once or twice a week.
- For general wellness, monthly sessions could be an ideal way to help support your lymphatic system so it can function at its best. Because everyone responds to treatment differently, some people may need more treatments and support.
Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage Covered by Insurance?
Many insurance plans provide coverage for Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) when it is performed by a qualified, licensed healthcare professional, such as a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)
Can some people experience temporary unwanted symptoms after lymphatic drainage?
Yes, it is possible that some people experience brief unwonted symptoms like headaches, fatigue, nausea, achiness and even could got sick. This may happen because waste products and other harmful substances have built up in the tissues over
time and are now being moved through the body.
Moreover, after lymphatic drainage one might experience temporary tingling or itching because the skin and superficial nerves are being stimulated and tissue fluid is shifting.
Is it Ok to Exercise After Lymphatic Drainage Session?
After your MLD treatment, gentle movement such as a short walk can be a great way to keep your lymphatic system moving and support circulation as well.
Lymphatic Drainage & Cellulite: Can It Help?
Lymphatic drainage may temporarily improve the appearance of cellulite by decreasing fluid retention and supporting circulation. However, there is not enough research to
confirm that they can permanently remove cellulite or fat cells.