Step by step · Lymphatic drainage

Lymphatic drainage in Zurich-Oerlikon

A gentle technique that stimulates lymph flow and reduces swelling. Here you can see exactly what happens before, during and after the treatment at SADEA – also available in English.

Timeline

What happens before, during and after lymphatic drainage?

  1. Before the treatment

    Appointment and health questions

    When you book, I briefly ask about your complaints, previous illnesses and medication. This lets me check whether lymphatic drainage is suitable for you.

    • Bring medical reports, if you have any
    • Bring your compression stockings, if you wear them
    • Briefly check coverage with your supplementary insurer
  2. During the treatment

    Initial assessment

    Where is the swelling, how long has it been there and what makes it worse? Then we decide together which areas I will treat.

  3. During the treatment

    Comfortable positioning, starting at the neck

    You lie relaxed, usually on your back. The treatment generally begins at the neck and the major lymph nodes, so that fluid can then drain away easily.

  4. During the treatment

    Gentle pumping and circular strokes

    With light, rhythmic pressure I move the lymph towards the lymph nodes. The pressure is very gentle, and many people find the treatment deeply relaxing.

  5. After the treatment

    Rest and drink

    Get up slowly and drink plenty of water. Needing to urinate more often in the hours afterwards is normal and a sign that your body is releasing fluid.

  6. After the treatment

    Plan and reimbursement receipt

    We discuss whether further sessions make sense and how far apart. You receive the reimbursement receipt for your health insurer.

What happens during lymphatic drainage?

Lymphatic drainage at SADEA begins with a short conversation about your complaints. You then lie comfortably while I stimulate lymph flow with gentle, rhythmic pumping and circular strokes, usually starting at the neck. The treatment lasts 50, 70 or 90 minutes. Afterwards, you should drink plenty and allow yourself some rest.

What is lymphatic drainage suitable for?

Lymphatic drainage is suitable for swelling and fluid retention, for example in the legs, after operations or injuries in consultation with your doctor, for heavy legs during pregnancy and for a general feeling of congestion. I clarify during the initial assessment whether it makes sense for you.

For heavy, swollen legs, lymphatic drainage works like a very gentle leg massage that carries away the built-up fluid.

If you have a medically diagnosed lymphoedema, I only treat in consultation with your doctor. During pregnancy, this gentle technique is often part of the pregnancy massage.

What does lymphatic drainage feel like?

Lymphatic drainage feels very gentle, much lighter than a classic massage. The strokes are slow and rhythmic and mainly move the skin, not the deep muscles. Many people find the treatment deeply relaxing and even fall asleep during it. It is not painful.

Does health insurance cover lymphatic drainage?

Yes, partly through supplementary insurance. SADEA is recognised by most supplementary insurers and is EMR certified, so you can submit the reimbursement receipt for lymphatic drainage to your insurer. Basic insurance does not cover lymphatic drainage at SADEA. How much your share is depends on your insurance plan.

All details: Prices & health insurance.

When is lymphatic drainage not suitable?

There is no treatment in case of acute inflammation or infection with fever, acute thrombosis, heart failure with fluid retention or acute skin inflammation in the treatment area. With cancer, an overactive thyroid or very low blood pressure, I clarify with you and your doctor beforehand whether treatment is possible.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about lymphatic drainage

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How often should I come for lymphatic drainage?

That depends on the reason. For acute swelling, one or two sessions a week often make sense at first; for long-standing complaints, regular sessions over a longer period. I discuss the rhythm with you after the initial assessment.

How long does lymphatic drainage take?

You choose 50 minutes (CHF 150.–), 70 minutes (CHF 195.–) or 90 minutes (CHF 240.–). For one area of the body, such as the legs, 50 minutes is usually enough.

Is lymphatic drainage possible during pregnancy?

For heavy, swollen legs, gentle lymphatic drainage can bring relief. Please talk to your gynaecologist or midwife beforehand and tell me which week of pregnancy you are in.

What should I keep in mind after lymphatic drainage?

Drink plenty of water, get up slowly and avoid strenuous physical activity afterwards. If you wear compression stockings, put them back on straight after the treatment.

Do I need a medical prescription?

Not for a treatment at SADEA. Some supplementary insurers require a doctor’s recommendation for reimbursement – it is best to check this with your insurer before your first appointment.

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Appointment with Sanja Muncan

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