Meet Mel Potts
Lymphatic massage at The Coastal Clinic is performed by Mel Potts, who works with our surgical patients through both preparation and recovery, as well as with clients who have never had surgery at all.
Mel’s commitment to holistic health and her empathetic approach make her a valued practitioner for those looking to enhance their health and vitality.
She works closely with Dr Cronin, Dr Sparks and the nursing team, so treatment sits alongside your surgical plan rather than separate from it — and she will always defer to your surgeon on timing.
What it is How lymphatic drainage massage works
The lymphatic system is the body’s drainage network. It clears excess fluid, cellular waste and the by-products of healing out of your tissues. Unlike the circulatory system it has no pump — it depends on movement and on the muscles around it to keep things flowing.
Surgery interrupts that. Incisions cut across lymphatic pathways, tissue is disturbed, and you are moving less than usual at exactly the point your body most needs the drainage working. Fluid pools. That is the swelling, the tightness and the heaviness patients describe in the first few weeks.
Lymphatic massage uses very light, rhythmic strokes that follow the direction of lymph flow, encouraging fluid towards nodes that are still working normally. It is not about pressure. Pressing hard would collapse the very vessels the treatment is trying to drain, which is why it feels so much gentler than a remedial massage.
Indications What lymphatic massage helps
Mel brings a wealth of experience to her practice, focusing on a distinctive lymphatic massage technique that gently stimulates the lymphatic system. Her method is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking support with:
- Post-operative recovery — reducing swelling and bruising, and promoting healing
- Preventing fibrosis, the firm thickening that can develop in the surgical area
- Scar softening and appearance
- Hormonal fluctuations associated with menopause, perimenopause, PMS or PCOS
- Endometriosis symptom support
- Pregnancy-related discomforts, including fluid retention
- Digestive comfort, bloating and a feeling of heaviness
- General wellness, by encouraging the body’s natural detoxification
If you are under active treatment for any medical condition, or have a diagnosed lymphoedema or lipoedema, please let us know when you book so Mel can work alongside your treating team.
Treatments in detailThree ways lymphatic massage is used
Preparing the body — building a head start
Most people think of lymphatic massage as something you do afterwards, and starting beforehand is the part that gets overlooked. Sessions in the weeks leading up to an operation improve circulation and support immune function, so your tissue arrives at surgery well oxygenated and your body is in better condition to heal.
What this looks like
- Start four to six weeks before your procedure
- One session a week for three weeks
- Improved circulation and immune support going in
- You already know the treatment before you are sore and recovering
Recovery — swelling, bruising and fibrosis
This is where the difference is most obvious. Encouraging drainage helps clear excess fluid, reduces bruising and eases the pressure-type pain that comes with swollen tissue. Over the longer term it reduces the chance of fibrosis forming, and helps scars settle and soften.
What this looks like
- Begins once your surgeon clears it, commonly around two weeks
- One or two sessions a week to about twelve weeks post-surgery
- Less swelling, less bruising, more comfortable healing
- Works alongside compression garments and gentle movement
Maintenance and general wellbeing
Lymphatic massage is not only for surgical recovery. Once a recovery plan is complete, monthly sessions maintain the benefit. It is also used on its own to support fluid retention, digestive comfort, hormonal fluctuations and general wellbeing.
What this looks like
- Monthly appointments once recovery is complete
- Support for fluid retention and bloating
- Hormonal support through PMS, PCOS and perimenopause
- A calming treatment that settles the nervous system
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