A new partnership brings specialized manual lymphatic drainage treatments to our Chicago Gold Coast office, along with a complimentary treatment for Bloom Plastic Surgery patients.
At Bloom Plastic Surgery, exceptional patient care doesn’t end when surgery is complete. Recovery is an important part of the surgical experience, and we’re always looking for ways to make that process more comfortable and supportive for our patients.
We’re excited to announce a new partnership with National Lymphatic Centers (NLC), bringing specialized manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) treatments to our Chicago Gold Coast office beginning October 26, 2026.
As part of this partnership, Dr. Bloom will provide every surgical patient with a complimentary initial 70-minute manual lymphatic drainage appointment, offering an additional level of support during the postoperative recovery process.
What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?
Manual lymphatic drainage, commonly called MLD or lymphatic drainage massage, is a specialized therapeutic technique designed to encourage the natural movement of lymphatic fluid throughout the body.
The lymphatic system plays an essential role in maintaining fluid balance, supporting immune function, and removing excess fluid from tissues.
Unlike traditional massage, which typically involves manipulating muscles and deeper tissues, MLD uses gentle, rhythmic movements and light pressure to encourage lymphatic fluid to move toward functioning lymph vessels and lymph nodes.
This technique is particularly beneficial for managing certain types of swelling, including the fluid accumulation that commonly occurs following surgery.
More than three decades in lymphatic care.
Sharon M. Vogel opened National Lymphatic Centers in 1991 and built the Vogel Method of manual lymphatic drainage over the decades since. She trains NLC staff and other licensed therapists in the technique through CEU education at the Vogel Institute of Lymphology and chairs the Illinois Chapter of the Lymphatic Education and Research Network.
- Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT), Academy of Lymphatic Studies (ACOLS)
- Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)
- Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (BCTMB)
- Certified Vogel Manual Lymphatic Drainage (CVMLD™)
- Valedictorian, BS Biomedical Science with emphasis in Nutrition, National University of Health Sciences (NUHS)
- Graduate study, Biomedical Science, Midwestern University
- Continued education, Midwest Naturopathic Medical School
- Chair, LE&RN Illinois Chapter
- Founder, The Vogel Institute of Lymphology
Meet National Lymphatic Centers
NLC’s practitioners are trained in the Vogel Method of Manual Lymphatic Drainage (VMLD™), a specialized approach developed by Vogel that uses gentle, precise techniques to encourage lymphatic fluid movement. The organization provides lymphatic care for patients recovering from surgery, managing swelling, and addressing a variety of other lymphatic health concerns.
Through this new partnership, National Lymphatic Centers will offer treatments onsite at Bloom Plastic Surgery’s Chicago Gold Coast office on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
Patients will also have the flexibility to schedule appointments at other NLC locations throughout Chicagoland, including Hinsdale, Downers Grove, and Joliet.
How Can Lymphatic Drainage Support Plastic Surgery Recovery?
Swelling is a normal part of the healing process following plastic surgery. As the body responds to surgical trauma, fluid can accumulate in surrounding tissues, contributing to puffiness, tightness, and discomfort.
Manual lymphatic drainage may help manage these symptoms by supporting the body’s natural fluid circulation.
Potential benefits of postoperative MLD include:
- Reduced swelling: Encourages the movement of excess fluid away from areas affected by surgery.
- Improved comfort: Reducing fluid accumulation may help alleviate sensations of tightness and heaviness.
- Support for natural healing: Complements the body’s normal recovery processes by promoting lymphatic fluid movement.
- A gentle approach to recovery: Uses light, controlled movements rather than the deeper pressure associated with traditional massage.
Research suggests that MLD can be beneficial for reducing postoperative swelling following certain cosmetic procedures. However, results vary, and additional research is needed to establish its effectiveness for specific procedures and recovery outcomes.
MLD is intended to complement, not replace, the postoperative instructions and follow-up care provided by your surgeon.
Which Plastic Surgery Procedures May Benefit From MLD?
Manual lymphatic drainage is frequently incorporated into recovery plans following cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
Depending on the patient’s individual needs and surgical recovery, MLD may be considered following procedures such as:
Facelift and Neck Lift Surgery
Facial swelling is common following facelift and neck lift procedures. When approved by the surgeon, gentle lymphatic drainage may help manage postoperative puffiness and fluid retention.
Liposuction
Liposuction temporarily disrupts surrounding tissues and lymphatic pathways, which can contribute to swelling during recovery. MLD may help encourage fluid movement as the body heals.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Following abdominoplasty, patients often experience swelling and tightness in the abdominal area. Lymphatic drainage may be incorporated into a postoperative care plan to help manage fluid accumulation.
Other Body Contouring Procedures
Patients recovering from certain breast and body contouring procedures may also benefit from lymphatic drainage, depending on their surgical plan and individual circumstances.
Not every patient or procedure requires MLD. Dr. Bloom will determine when treatment is appropriate based on the type of surgery, healing progress, and individual medical history.
What to Expect During a Manual Lymphatic Drainage Appointment
An MLD appointment is different from a traditional massage.
Rather than using deep pressure, the therapist applies light, rhythmic movements to specific areas of the body to encourage lymphatic fluid to move through its natural pathways. Your therapist will review your health history, discuss your concerns, and tailor the session to your individual needs.
Most patients find the treatment gentle and relaxing. Because postoperative tissues can be sensitive, treatment techniques and timing should always be coordinated with your surgeon’s recommendations.
For patients recovering from surgery, the appropriate time to begin MLD depends on the procedure performed and individual healing progress.
Certain medical conditions, including active infections, blood clots, and some heart conditions, may make MLD inappropriate. A medical assessment is important before beginning treatment.
A Complimentary 70-Minute MLD Session for Bloom Surgical Patients
We believe that thoughtful postoperative care is an essential part of achieving a positive surgical experience.
That’s why, as part of our partnership with National Lymphatic Centers, Dr. Bloom is gifting each surgical patient an initial 70-minute manual lymphatic drainage appointment.
Patients can schedule directly with NLC and select whichever location is most convenient for them. Additional appointments, if recommended, can also be arranged directly through National Lymphatic Centers.
This partnership allows us to expand the resources available to our patients while maintaining the personalized approach to surgical care that defines Bloom Plastic Surgery.
Supporting Your Recovery Every Step of the Way
Choosing plastic surgery is a personal decision, and we believe patients deserve exceptional care throughout the entire experience, from their initial consultation through their final stages of recovery.
Our partnership with National Lymphatic Centers reflects Dr. Bloom’s ongoing commitment to providing patients with access to specialized services that complement their surgical care.
We’re excited to welcome NLC to our Gold Coast office and introduce this additional recovery resource to our patients.
Interested in learning more about manual lymphatic drainage or scheduling your complimentary appointment?
Visit National Lymphatic Centers to explore their services and locations, or contact our team at Bloom Plastic Surgery for more information about your postoperative care.