Everything you need to know before your first visit.
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Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle form of massage that encourages the lymphatic system to move excess fluid and support healing. Unlike traditional massage, it uses light, precise movements just beneath the skin. I use the Vodder technique, which requires specialized techniques to perform correctly.
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No. A professional license establishes a regulated role under state law, while a certificate documents completion of a training program. They're worth checking separately.
I'm an Oregon-licensed massage therapist (LMT #28750), certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Vodder technique) through the Academy of Lymphatic Studies (ACOLS). I've also completed advanced post-operative training through the Aftercare Academy — a 54.5-hour, in-person program focused on post-plastic-surgery protocols, compression assessment, and complication awareness.
You're welcome to ask about my credentials, training hours, and treatment methods before booking.
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I choose techniques based on your procedure, healing stage, comfort, and surgeon's instructions rather than following a demonstration as a treatment plan. Your session may look quieter than what you've seen online. If you're curious about a technique, just ask.
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Early treatment is typically very gentle and focused on Manual Lymphatic Drainage. As you heal and your surgeon permits, care may gradually include firmer techniques to address swelling, restriction, firmness, or fibrosis. Treatment never involves forceful work on healing tissue, opening incisions, or expressing fluid through surgical wounds.
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With your surgeon's approval, gentle treatment may begin as early as 48 hours after surgery. Some surgeons prefer that patients wait longer, and their instructions always take priority. If possible, schedule your initial appointments before surgery.
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There is no single schedule that is right for everyone. The number and frequency of sessions depend on your procedure, the extent of surgery, your surgeon’s recommendations, how your body is healing, and whether you are experiencing significant swelling, firmness, or fibrosis.
Many clients begin with two to three sessions per week during the first few weeks and then transition to weekly care as recovery progresses.
We will discuss an initial plan at your first visit and adjust it based on how your tissues respond. You will never be pressured to schedule more treatment than appears appropriate.
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Yes. Post-surgical care may improve the feel, mobility, and texture of areas that have become firm or restricted, though fibrosis often changes gradually over time. A new or worsening lump, redness, warmth, drainage, fever, or increasing pain should be evaluated by your surgeon before treatment continues.
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I commonly work with liposuction and Lipo 360, tummy tucks, mommy makeovers, breast procedures, facelifts, arm lifts, and lipedema reduction surgery. If your procedure isn't listed, contact me before scheduling so we can confirm Healwell is a good fit.
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Yes. Healwell Lymphatics & Massage uses the Rouge Pro G4 red-light panel, which combines red and near-infrared wavelengths designed to support tissue recovery and post-operative healing.
Red light is not body-contouring and doesn't replace manual lymphatic work. It's offered as part of a broader recovery plan, and we'll discuss whether it's appropriate for your procedure, healing stage, and surgeon's instructions before including it in your session.
If you're curious whether red-light therapy fits your recovery, ask about it when you book.
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We'll start with a detailed conversation about your procedure, symptoms, healing progress, compression garments, and surgeon's instructions. I'll then assess your swelling, incisions, and tissue condition before beginning hands-on treatment appropriate for your recovery stage.
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Wear loose, comfortable clothing that's easy to remove. Bring your compression garments, foams, boards, or pads so we can assess how they're fitting.
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Yes. With your written consent, I can communicate with your surgical team about timing, restrictions, or relevant observations. Your surgeon's instructions always take priority.
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Most care after elective cosmetic surgery is private-pay. Some qualifying medically necessary treatment may be covered, depending on your plan, but benefits must be verified before treatment. We are in-network with Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield and several other insurance plans.
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Healwell Lymphatics & Massage is located in Raleigh Hills, inside Balanced Wellness, at 4850 SW Scholls Ferry Road, Suite 305, Portland, Oregon 97225. Free parking is available, and the office is elevator accessible. A private restroom is available for our clients.
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Schedule online, call 503-484-3319, or email julianne@healwellportland.com. If you're unsure what to book, request a complimentary consultation first.
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Please provide at least 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule.
Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice: $100 fee.
No-show or no-call: charged the full service price.
Prepaid packages follow the same 24-hour policy, with up to two recovery-related reschedules available during the first three weeks after surgery when at least four hours' notice is given.
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