Post Cosmetic Home Recovery & Tips
For the ultimate post-cosmetic result, precision is everything. That’s why Cassandra Nulik, a Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage Specialist (ACOLS), and Sherica (The Faja Lady) have partnered to streamline your recovery. By combining expert MLD techniques with professional compression management, we ensure your body heals faster and your surgical outcome is fully optimized. From clinical oversight to the perfect contour, we are here to keep you
safe, sane, and snatched!
Bella Vida Medical Massage
6510 Virginia Pkwy STE 202
McKinney, TX 75071
Call or Text: (817) 381-8667
The Faja Lady
Sterling Salon Suites
3645 Dallas Pkwy Suite 501
Room 103
Plano, TX 75093
Post Cosmetic Home Recovery
Your Post-Op Dream Team
Recovery is more than just physical treatment; it’s about having a dedicated support system. As your specialist partners, we act as an extra set of expert eyes on your progress.
- Clinical Vigilance: We monitor your healing closely and will immediately alert you to any concerns requiring medical attention.
- Compression Mastery: We ensure your garments are always fitting optimally, making the necessary adjustments to protect your investment.
- Total Support: Working alongside your surgeon, we provide the guidance and care needed to ensure your journey is seamless.
We are committed to your health and your silhouette. We look forward to helping you achieve the results you deserve!
Bella Vida Medical Massage Post-Operative Care Plan: Lymphatic Drainage & Compression
This guide provides essential information for managing your recovery using Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and medical-grade compression garments (Fajas).
I. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
MLD is a gentle, specialized technique designed to encourage the movement of excess fluid trapped just beneath the skin following surgery
Scheduling & Experience
- When to Book: Schedule your MLD sessions 3-4 weeks in advance of your surgery, 4-5 days post op. (See frequency on page two). Schedule your first appointment online: www.bellavidamedicalmassage.com
- Does It Hurt? Absolutely NOT. The pressure used is extremely light—about the weight of a nickel. You will leave the session feeling lighter and experiencing less pain.
- Fluid Elimination: The fluid is naturally processed by your lymphatic system and exits your body through urine. We perform manual surface drainage only; we do not perform incisional drainage, as this carries a risk of infection and is painful.
- How long are the sessions? We recommend 60-minute sessions for the first two weeks. Beginning around week three (depending on how your body is healing) we can introduce specialized treatments—such as gentle cupping and scar therapy—to complement your MLD. These additions will extend your appointment time; your therapist will provide a personalized recommendation for your schedule moving forward.
- How does the scar treatment work? The Dolphin MPS system applies low-level microcurrents directly to scar tissue under the skin. The devices are applied to each side of the scar not directly on it. This gentle, non-invasive process is designed to improve the pliability and sensory feel of the area—often with noticeable results after just one session. By breaking up internal adhesions, this treatment can alleviate pain, enhance circulation of the blood and lymph, improve the scar's appearance, and restore greater flexibility and range of motion.
Recommended MLD Sessions (12 Sessions Suggested)
| Timeline | Frequency | Session Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Surgery | 1 session (1-2 days before) | 60 minutes | Recommended to jumpstart the lymphatic system and reduce post-op swelling. |
| Post-Surgery | (Start MLD on Day 4 or 5) | ||
| Week 1 | 3 times a week | 60 minutes | |
| Week 2 | 3 times a week | 60 minutes | |
| Week 3 | 2 times a week | 60 minutes | |
| Week 4-6 | 1 time a week | 60 minutes | |
| Maintenance | Every other week for 1 month, then monthly | Varies | Highly recommended to manage periods of swelling after the initial 6 weeks. |
Session Length Cost Per Session Total Cost (for 12 sessions)
| Session Duration | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 60 Minutes | $160 | $1,920 |
| 75 Minutes | $200 | $2,400 |
| 90 Minutes | $240 | $2,880 |
Advanced Treatments:
- Scar Treatment: Add 5 sessions for $100 extra to the 75 or 90 minute sessions, beginning at Week 3. Depending on how long the scar is will depend on the amount of time to treat the scar.
- 90-Minute Sessions: Available starting at Week 3. These include MLD, advanced techniques, and scar treatment (especially recommended for extended tummy tucks).
- Action: Contact your therapist at Bella Vida Medical Massage to determine the best treatment option for your recovery
II. Compression Garments from The Faja Lady
The compression Faja is critical because it slows the rate of fluid coming into the cells, allowing the lymphatic system to filter fluid out of the body faster. Always wear your compression (binder or Faja) after an MLD session per your surgeon’s recommendation.
Faja Fittings & Purchasing
- Initial Fitting: Schedule your first fitting with The Faja Lady in Plano (Sherica Spearman) before surgery. The start date for your faja depends on your surgeon’s instructions.
- Address: Sterling Salon Suites
- 3645 Dallas Pkwy 501 Room 103, Plano, TX 75093
- Schedule your appointment online (you will go to the address above for your fitting)
- https://www.thefajalady.com/
- Quantity Needed: approx. 4-6 Fajas are recommended (2 for Stage 1, 2 for Stage 2).
- Cost:
- Medical Grade Faja: Approx $180 each
- Fitting Appointment: Approx $40 per fitting
- Absolutely do not dry your faja in the dryer- You must hang it to dry! This is why it is good to have two at a time.
- Alterations: You can book your alterations with Sherica for approx. $40 per alteration.
Compression Stages
| Stage | Duration | Compression Level | Key Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | First few weeks (up to Week 3) | Lighter Compression | Recommended to own two for rotation (one to wash, one to wear). Tighten to the next hook as MLD reduces swelling and the garment feels looser. Wear 23/7 |
| Stage 2 | Starting around Week 3 | Tighter Compression | Transition to this higher compression stage for greater support. 23/7 |
| Final Sizing | Around Week 6 | Tighter Compression | After your final faja size-down, begin gradually weaning off compression by listening to your body’s signals—starting with two-hour breaks and slowly working up to 12 hours—while keeping in mind that occasional swelling may persist through month three. |
Comprehensive Post-Operative Care Cost Budget: MLD + Faja costs. Costs may vary
| Cost Component | 60-Minute MLD (12 Sessions) | 75-Minute MLD (12 Sessions) |
|---|---|---|
| MLD Session Cost | $1,920 | $2,400 |
| Faja Garment Cost (4 Fajas) approx. $180 each. | $720 | $720 |
| Subtotal (MLD + Fajas) | $2,640 | $3,120 |
| Variable Faja Appointments (3 Fittings/Alterations @ $40) | $120 | $120 |
| Total Cost (with 3 Appts) | $2,760 | $3,240 |
| Variable Faja Appointments (4 Fittings/Alterations @ $40) | $160 | $160 |
| Total Cost (with 4 Appts) | $2,800 | $3,280 |
| Optional Scar Treatment Add-on (5 sessions) | Not offered with 60 minute sessions. | $100 (5 treatments) |
| MAX GRAND TOTAL (4 Appts + Scar Treatment) | $2,800 | $3,380 |
Beyond the physical treatment, you have a dedicated support system watching over you. Sherica (the "Faja Lady") and Cassandra Nulik serve as an extra set of expert eyes throughout your journey. We monitor your progress closely; if we spot anything concerning that requires immediate medical attention or notice that your compression garment isn't fitting optimally, we will alert you right away.
We are committed to being by your side every step of the way, providing the guidance and adjustments you need to succeed. Together with your surgeon, we form a comprehensive "dream team" focused entirely on your health and your results. We look forward to helping you with your recovery.
Your Post-Cosmetic Recovery: Managing Scar Tissue & Flow
Untreated scar tissue acts as a physical roadblock, creating deep restrictions that are often the primary cause of chronic post-surgical pain. This fibrous tissue doesn't just stay on the surface; it can attach itself to organs, muscles, and connective tissue, leading to discomfort that affects your entire body, not just the incision site.
Imagine a highway with closed lanes; these adhesions cause your blood and lymph to back up as congested traffic, resulting in pressure and swelling. By integrating Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) with the scar tissue treatment, we can break up those adhesions below the surface on a cellular level using the Dolphin Neurostim. This advanced microcurrent technology releases deep restrictions to restore vital circulation and lymphatic flow—allowing you to reduce swelling faster, break up internal adhesions, and alleviate pain while significantly improving your mobility and posture.
From Patient to Practitioner: My 4-Year Scar Transformation
I’ve been providing scar treatment at Bella Vida Medical Massage since 2022, but my personal journey started three years after my own knee surgery. I used to think the pain and deep indentation were just things I’d have to live with. I avoided pressure on my knee, hated touching the scar, and it completely stole my love for working out and swimming.
The Turning Point
Everything changed during a continuing education class. My instructor had been hit by a car while cycling—the impact sent a handlebar through his leg to the femur. He treated that massive wound with Dolphin Neurostim daily for 30 days. By the end, the scar was barely visible. Seeing his results gave me the hope to try it on my "old" scar and see if it lived up to the hype.
The Missing Piece: Why MLD is the Essential Partner
As I began my own recovery and started treating clients, I realized that breaking up the scar tissue with technology is only half the battle.
This is why I always emphasize the importance of MLD alongside scar treatment:
- The "Cleanup Crew": When the Dolphin Neurostim breaks up dense, old scar tissue at a cellular level, that debris needs to go somewhere. MLD stimulates the lymphatic system to flush out those metabolic wastes and toxins.
- Rerouting the Traffic: Surgery acts like a roadblock on a highway. MLD "re-routes" the fluid around the surgical site so it doesn't pool and cause the "heavy" feeling or swelling often associated with scars.
- Reducing Inflammation: By moving stagnant fluid away from the scar, MLD reduces the internal pressure that often causes the very pain we are trying to treat.
My Journey (Starting 3 Years Post-Op!)
- The Clinical Process: Since 2022, I’ve treated my scar 24 times. I started with frequent sessions, and as the pain subsided and my range of motion returned, I moved to occasional maintenance.
- The Texture: With every session, I could feel the tissue transforming. It went from dense and "stuck" to soft and pliable.
- The Surface: That deep indentation I had? By the 15th treatment, it had flattened out completely.
Today, I am 100% pain-free. My mobility is back, and I’m finally back in the pool swimming without a second thought!
How I Can Help You
I specialize in working with post-cosmetic and post-surgical clients at Bella Vida Medical Massage in McKinney. By combining the structural repair of the Dolphin Neurostim with the fluid-clearing power of Manual Lymphatic Drainage, we provide the most comprehensive recovery possible.
Whether your surgery was last week or years ago, don’t assume the tightness and discomfort are permanent. Your tissue can be remodeled, and your fluid can flow freely again.
What to Expect After a Cosmetic Procedure
Week 1:
- Swelling and Discomfort: Swelling and discomfort are common in the first two weeks. Rest assured, these symptoms typically subside gradually.
- Movement and Hydration: Gentle movement and staying well-hydrated are crucial for optimal healing. Aim for daily walks and consume plenty of water.
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): Consider incorporating MLD sessions (two per week with at least 48 hours apart) to promote lymphatic drainage and reduce swelling.
- Self-Care: Gentle massage daily and sleep to support your body's healing process.
Week 2-3:
- Reduced Swelling: You should experience a noticeable decrease in swelling by week two.
- Palpable Lumps: Don't be alarmed by the presence of small lumps; these are likely fluid collections rather than fibrosis.
- Fibrosis: Fibrosis can develop later in the healing process (around weeks 5-6) if proper post-surgical care is neglected.
- Uneven Swelling: One side may retain fluids more than the other. This is normal and will improve with time.
- Infection Signs: Be mindful of potential infection signs like redness, pus, necrosis (tissue death) or foul odor. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these.
Week 4-6:
- Continued Improvement: Swelling should be significantly reduced by week four, with continued improvement in overall well-being.
- Compression Garment Adjustment: You may need to adjust your compression garment size as needed.
- Individual Healing Timeline:
The rate of shape definition varies and can be influenced by factors like surgery type, age, and adherence to post-surgical protocols.
Self Massage & Cupping videos for Post Cosmetic Procedures
Lymph Node Prep
This video demonstrates a Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) session, highlighting the gentle, rhythmic techniques used to stimulate lymphatic flow and effectively decrease inflammation for improved recovery and wellness.
How to determine if you have a Seroma.
Scar Tissue Treatment using the Dolphin Neurostim
Post Cosmetic Home Recovery Back Massage
Post Cosmetic Home Recovery Abdominal Massage
Post Cosmetic Home Recovery Tool
Post Cosmetic Home Recovery Cupping for the Abdomen & Flanks Week 3
How to massage your breast implants after surgery. Check with your surgeon to see if these techniques are right for you and when they would like you to start the implant massage.
Shopping List
Gentle Massager for abdomen/arms/legs
For the arms, abdomen, or legs.use daily several times a day on the areas you had lipo or tummy tuck.
Gentle Massager
Gentle Massager - use daily several times a day on the areas you had lipo or tummy tuck. For facial procedures, chin lipo, face lift.
Magnesium Calming Cream
TheraBlend Magnesium Calming Cream by CryoDerm is a cream containing magnesium from the Dead Sea. It can help alleviate some muscle discomfort/pain, muscle spasms, cramps and bruising.
DANDELION ROOT TEA
This will help you pee more- you eliminate excess fluid and inflammation through the urinary system. So the more you go, the better! You can find this at whole foods store or amazon.
Lipo Foam
Worn under your faja. Foams must be touching, not overlapping or gaping. If there is a gap, fluid will fill the gap and leave you with a lump of fluid.
Faja's, Ab Board & Lumbar Board
The Faja Lady in Frisco, TX has he best quality medical grade faja's, ab boards and lumbar boards. She will help you get fitted for a garment as well as show you how to use the foams and boards!
Guasha Tool (Week 4 of recovery)
We don't use this until week four. This helps with softening lumps and it helps push stubborn fluid around.
Silicone Cup (week 2/3)
Silicone cup used to help stretch the skin and allow for lymph to flow better. - I sell for $12.99 per cup