Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
This gentle manual technique reduces inflammation/swelling, bruising and pain following accidents, injuries and surgical procedures. MLD is sometimes called lymphatic massage. Lymphatic work is also useful for autoimmune issues, sinus/allergies, and digestive problems. Scroll down the page for FAQs.
First time clients are encouraged to book a 90 min session for optimal outcomes and education.
60 min session = $120 | 90 min session = $155
Customized Massage Therapy
A combination of neuromuscular therapy, cupping, orthopedic techniques, and manual lymphatic drainage are used to address your specific needs and concerns.
Allow us to offer you a safe, comforting and therapeutic touch and modalities to improve your mental, emotional and physical health.
60 min session = $120 | 90 min session = $155 | 120 min session = $215
Scar Tissue Work
Scar tissue results from surgeries, accidents, and burns. This thick, sometimes raised, fibrous tissue is not as pliable as normal healthy skin and is weaker in terms of tensile strength. A scar that we can see is often accompanied by scar tissue underneath the skin that we can’t see but can feel.
Dolphin Neurostim MPS therapy is used along with scar massage and gentle cupping to relax and fade scar tissue, decrease pain in connective tissue, and increase range of motion in the affected areas. Scar work can be included within any session or as a stand-alone service.
Head, Jaw, and Neck Work
Tension or chronic headaches can be a result of too much device time, dry eyes, smiling too much during Zoom meetings, and non-optimal work, sleep and driving posture. Many clients tell me they didn’t know their face or even scalp could hold so much tension….well, it does for many of us.
I had TMD/TMJ issues most of my life, so I know the importance of this work. I perform intraoral work (wearing gloves) when necessary. This work can be included within any session - feel free to ask for it!
Microcurrent Point Stimulation
(MPS therapy) is used to treat chronic and acute soft tissue pain and scars in an all-natural, drug-free way. This is done by applying microcurrent impulses to trigger acupuncture points, providing quick and effective pain relief for a number of medical conditions.
MPS therapy integrates the principles of acupuncture with modern neurological science to provide an all-natural, holistic approach to treating the body and mind. This combination produces very effective results which have been recognized across North America. MPS therapy works with the Dolphin Neurostim™ portable pain relief unit.
MPS therapy can be included within any session, just ask me about it!
To learn more about Dolphin MPS therapy, please visit dolphinmps.com.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Frequently Asked Questions
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, therapeutic technique designed to stimulate the flow of lymph fluid in the body. It is commonly used post-surgically (cosmetic and non-cosmetic surgeries) to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and promote healing.
Your therapist will use light, rhythmic strokes to encourage lymph movement towards the lymph nodes, where it can be filtered and processed.
After surgery (or any injury / accident), the body's lymphatic system can become overwhelmed due to increased fluid accumulation, bruising, and inflammation. MLD helps to:
- Expel anesthesia and other toxins from your system.
- Reduce post-surgical swelling (edema) and bruising.
- Enhance circulation to the affected area
- Accelerate the healing process
- Improve overall comfort and mobility
Your surgeon determines the appropriate time to begin MLD post-surgery. It is best to ask your surgeon this question during your pre-op appointment so you can plan and schedule appropriately. Generally, it can start within 7 days to a few weeks after your surgery.
These variables will affect when you can start MLD:
- Surgeon directions
- Type of surgery
- Extent of the surgery and/or number of surgical areas
- How your incisions are healing
- Your overall health
It depends on the extent of your injuries or surgery, the amount of bruising and swelling you have, and your body's response to treatment. Initially, you may need sessions once or twice a week. As the swelling and bruising decreases or as you start to get more range of motion, the frequency can be reduced.
Your therapist will create a tailored treatment plan based on your intake forms, discussions and results of the first treatment. Your therapist cannot make recommendations until the first session is ending as we need to assess how your body is responding to treatment.
In addition, your surgeon will have recommendations based on your post-surgical check-up.
Each MLD session will last 60 to 90 minutes. The duration varies depending on the area(s) being treated, your overall health, your specific recovery process and how your body responds to the treatment.
A full body detox for just overall health session is 90 minutes.
Most post-surgical sessions are 90 minutes. Some exceptions that can be limited to 60 minutes include items like: facial / eyelid cosmetic surgery only, lumpectomy one breast, or ankle sprain.
If you have had multiple surgical procedures done at one time, then a 90-minute session is typical.
If you also have aches and pain in multiple areas as a result of a car accident, sports injury or cosmetic surgery then a 90-minute session would be most appropriate.
No, it never should be, despite what you see on TikTok or Instagram! MLD is a gentle, slow, rhythmic and non-invasive technique. Most patients find the treatment relaxing and soothing. MLD done by a CERTIFIED and experienced Manual Therapist can be done as soon as a couple days after your injury, accident or surgery (If your Doctor or Surgeon gives permission). If you experience any discomfort during the session, inform your therapist immediately.
Some patients will notice an increase in energy and mobility. MLD is a powerful modality that encourages your body to quickly remove swelling, bruising, and toxins. Because of this, some patients may experience mild side effects the next day such as:
- Fatigue
- Flu-like symptoms
- Headache
- Dizziness or mild vertigo
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Increased urine output
- A strong odor in your urine
- Increased thirst
- Increase in bowel movements
These effects are usually short-lived and resolve quickly. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your therapist.
While professional MLD is highly recommended post-surgery, your therapist can teach you simple self-MLD techniques to perform at home. These techniques can help maintain the benefits of professional treatments and support your recovery process.
Although MLD is beneficial for many patients, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with the following conditions should avoid MLD:
- Active infection of any kind
- Taking antibiotics for an active infection.
- Any thrombosis or embolism
- Active cancer(s)
- Non-controlled hypertension
- Severe cardiac insufficiency or untreated congestive heart failure.
- Kidney disorders
- Cellulitis
- Hepatic cirrhosis
- Pregnancy* (This is a caution, MLD can be done ONLY after your first trimester and then only on your legs/ankles/feet for swelling.)
Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting MLD to ensure it is safe for you.
To find a qualified MLD therapist, consider the following steps:
- Ask for recommendations from your surgeon.
- Search for therapists certified by recognized organizations, such as the Academy of Lymphatic Studies (ACOLS).
- Ensure your therapist is CERTIFIED in the Vodder method of Manual Lymphatic Drainage, with a minimum of 40 hours of accredited training.
- Ask questions prior to your appointment or at the beginning of your appointment. Make sure you understand the techniques and the purpose of those techniques prior to starting your first appointment.
- Check for therapists with specialized training in post-surgical MLD.
Please see the "Your First Visit" page on Restorative Results Manual Therapy website to learn how to prepare for and expect upon entering our office. In addition, during your first MLD session, your therapist will:
- Ask you to use the restroom prior to your session start. MLD will make you have to pee!!
- Have reviewed your two intake forms (please ensure you have completed both intake forms a minimum of 24 hours prior to your appointment) and ask you any necessary follow-up questions.
- Explain the MLD technique and its benefits.
- Help you with removal (and putting back on) your compression garment(s) – if needed.
- Perform the first MLD session, focusing on the affected area(s).
- Develop a personalized treatment plan based on your goals, visual and palpation of your surgical areas, and your body’s reaction to the first session.
Your therapist will also provide guidance on post-session care and any self-MLD techniques you can practice at home.
In addition to professional and self MLD, you can support your recovery by:
- Continuing to practice your deep breathing / belly breathing that your therapist taught you on your first appointment.
- Staying well hydrated to help flush out anesthesia and other toxins.
- Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients to promote healing.
- Engaging in light physical activity, as recommended by your surgeon, to improve circulation and promote healing. Don't sit too much!
- Wearing compression garments, as advised by your surgeon, and following your surgeon’s instructions exactly.
- Following all post-surgical care instructions provided by your surgeon.
"Carrie was absolutely fabulous, extremely knowledgeable and made a huge impact on my life. I originally came to see her for post-surgical lymphatic drainage massages. My swelling and bruising drastically went down even after the first session of seeing her. While there, she noticed that I clenched my teeth. I’ve suffered from stress related headaches/migraines due to this for quite some time. She showed me how to do intra oral massage on myself that has made a huge difference on my headaches."
"I was seen by Carrie at her Alpharetta/Johns Creek office for Manual lymph drainage. Carrie is kind, gentle and effective in her technique. Carrie is knowledgeable in lymphatics and manual lymph drainage. I was comfortable and felt great during and after her treatment. She demonstrates passion for what she does and in helping others. Thank you Carrie for what you do."
"I can’t recommend her service enough!! She is very knowledgeable and great at what she does. I’ve learned so much about my body during our sessions. After each appointment I walk out feeling so relaxed and at ease. I can’t wait to go back!! You won’t regret booking with her."
"Carrie Dunn is a great massage therapist, works on issues to restore mobility and function and relaxation. She is my top choice for my monthly massage and have recommended her to friends and family."
"Carrie is AMAZING! She has helped me so much in a short time. Pain I always had is gone. Carrie is extremely knowledgeable about the body and is able to tell me what lifestyle changes to make to improve pain."
"Carrie is absolutely amazing! She is so knowledgeable about the body and how massage can help with all different types of ailments! She completely healed my bad hip from years of running that I can still continue to run! Make an appointment now!! You will not regret it!"
"Carrie is truly a gifted soul! I can’t thank her enough for helping me with migraine relief and pain management. I was at wits end until my brother referred me to her. Now seven of my family members are current patients to her gifted practice."
"My surgeon was shocked.....amazed actually at my range of motion since my horrendous bicycle accident and surgery. I did the physical therapy as advised but the secret was the expertise of Carrie Dunn! She has also been working on my scars and scar tissue. Surgery and PT were both great. Carrie's therapeutic massages are the icing on the cake. Go see her to get your life back."
"Carrie is fantastic and an expert in her field. With just two lymphatic therapy sessions I was feeling better. Highly recommend her."
"Best lymphatic and massage therapy in town! Has helped my edema in my head go down tremendously after my car accident in November. Highly recommend Carrie!"
"Carrie is on an entirely different level. She is not only highly skilled in the field of massage, but also lymphatic systems. I always feel more energized and sleep better after each session. My only complaint is I can’t see her every week because her schedule is so full because of her hot demand. Thank you Carrie!!!"
"I'd give 10 stars if I could. Carrie is a great massage therapist. Whether you need a Swedish massage to calm the nervous system, or have problem areas that need relief, she is very knowledgeable, caring and she gets results"
"I've been a client for years. Carrie increased circulation in my legs which decreased leg cramps. Other results included less pain and increased mobility. I have and will continue to see her weekly."
"Carrie is a true professional. She gives an amazing massage and is very intuitive. She spent extra time the areas of my body where I hold my stress relieving knots. She's able to give very deep pressure when needed but also has a light enough touch for lymphatic massage."
"Carrie is great. She knows how the body works together and finds the areas that need to be worked on. I highly recommend her not only for pain management but to relax"
"Very knowledgeable of all the muscles and tendons of one’s body. You go in to see Carrie in pain and with many issues and after one hour when you leave the office you feel like walking on a cloud. Recommending her therapy to all my family and friends."
"Hands down the best massage I've ever had. She definitely knows what she's doing, and what I love is that she explains everything as she is doing it. Can't wait for my next appointment."
"She has helped alleviate so much of my pain it is wonderful. She knows the right places and educates about what she is doing and why. She communicates the issues in layman’s terms."
"Carrie is amazing. She is very professional and she knows exactly what she is doing. After one session with her I felt amazing, I could actually sleep at night without the constant pain in my hip. I highly recommend her!!! Amazing!"
"Carrie was so kind to help me on my healing journey! Would rebook!"
"So grateful to have found Carrie! She is my go-to person for Dolphin MPS treatments for relief in my hand, neck, shoulder and hip; issues that my chiropractor or massage therapist haven't been able to address. She is very attentive, caring and thorough. Her space is very relaxing - an oasis."
"Great experience and extremely knowledgeable about a lot of muscular and physical issues! Amazing results after just one session. Highly recommend!"
"Carrie is so friendly and easy to be around. I’m always very comfortable and relaxed. Her skills and knowledge are amazing!"
"Carrie is incredible! She is a genius at finding tension I didn't even know I have. She has also taught me lymphatic and intraoral TMJ techniques I can use at home. I highly recommend her!"
"Carrie is an extremely gifted massage therapist who uses her skill and expertise to help improve your wellbeing. I highly recommend her!"
"I came to Carrie last minute with severe acute pain. She was so gracious to spend over 90 minutes working on me! I was incredibly impressed with her knowledge of the body and thankful for her willingness to explain the work she was doing. I will definitely use her services again and highly recommend her to anyone looking for a very intentional massage therapist."
"Carrie has been amazing for my postpartum recovery (as well as some possible long term injury recovery). She is extremely knowledgeable and explains clearly what she is doing and how it helps. I highly recommend her to anyone who needs pain relief or recovering from surgery."
"I love Carrie. She is amazing at what she does. She has helped me to improve my health in so many ways. I recommend her 100%."
"Carrie listens! If you want a massage therapist who is caring and passionate, go see her today. She is incredibly patient and finds what modality is best for your body."
"I got a lymphatic massage from Carrie. My daughters got it for me for my Birthday. What a fantastic present. She's wonderful. She listened to me. She put pillows on and made me very comfortable. It felt so good. I wasn't in pain. I was so relaxed and felt so peaceful. Thank you again Carrie!"
"Carrie is a life saver and an angel! I travel a ton for work and have a decent amount of stress/anxiety that I hold in my body, and her massages are incredibly impactful and productive. Her consulting with me regularly to target any problems is so helpful; she’s thorough and considerate of my needs - all the while just incredible at her craft. Thank you Carrie!!"
"Carrie is very knowledgeable, helpful, skillful, and gentle not only provided immediate reduced swelling but left me feeling rejuvenated and more balanced. Her knowledge and professionalism were evident throughout the session, creating a comfortable and soothing atmosphere."
"She was very helpful in helping me get a hold of my tendinitis in my elbow and a shoulder injury from lifting. She also left me with tons of tips, tricks and strategies to get better faster."
"I have been seeing Carrie for two years and I can confidently say that she is a healer. She has helped me resolve years of pain following multiple surgeries. She has a deep knowledge of the human body and definitely understands it better than several doctors that I have seen. She is kind and caring. I would recommend her to anyone that struggles with pain."
"Highly recommend Carrie. She is wonderful at what she does. Her knowledge of the human body is amazing. I went to her after a major surgery and again for shoulder issues. She is also a very nice person and makes you feel comfortable."
"I love Carrie! I have been seeing her for almost 3 years now after a c-section for recovery and my body has healed better than it did when I had my child years ago. I was in search of a holistic lymphatic therapist in my area and I'm so grateful to God for pointing me in her direction. Her hands are anointed, and she is very skilled in what she does."
"Carrie gave me one of the best massages I have ever had in my life. I came in with some pretty severe tension in my shoulders and neck. She was able to gently release the tension without causing me any pain. Carrie truly cares about her clients, and she is knowledgeable, talented and intuitive."