12/02/2026
Why you don’t drain lymph towards scars after surgery
If you’re recovering from surgery, understanding proper lymphatic drainage is essential. Here’s why draining lymph TOWARDS scar tissue can actually harm your healing:
THE SCIENCE:
1. Disrupted lymphatic pathways Surgical incisions cut through lymphatic vessels. Scar tissue forms as part of healing, but it lacks functional lymph vessels, creating a “roadblock” for fluid flow.
2. Scar tissue = Dense barrier
Scar tissue is fibrous, tight, and less vascular than healthy tissue. It can’t absorb or transport lymph fluid effectively, causing fluid to accumulate rather than.
3. Impaired healing
Excess fluid around scars can delay healing, increase inflammation, and make scars thicker or more prominent.
What should be happening instead
Drain lymph AWAY from the surgical site toward healthy lymph nodes
Use gentle, directional massage techniques
If you are doing self lymphatic work at home during sessions , follow your therapist’s specific post-op protocol (providing they are not draining towards scars)
Be patient, new lymphatic pathways take time to develop
REMEMBER, Your body is amazing at adapting. Over time, it can create collateral lymphatic routes around scar tissue, but this requires proper technique and patience.
When it comes to your after care never be afraid to ask your therapist about their training. This is your body so you need to advocate for yourself.
The lymphatic and post op world are like the Wild West right now so check accreditation and experience.
