The Benefits of Post-Surgical Massage for Mastectomy, Breast Augmentation & Top Surgery

Surgery is a major event for the body, and healing doesn’t stop when the incisions close. Whether you’ve had a mastectomy, breast augmentation, or top surgery, post-surgical massage can be a crucial part of your recovery process. These specialized techniques help manage pain, reduce swelling, soften scar tissue, and improve overall mobility, allowing you to feel more comfortable and confident in your body.

How Post-Surgical Massage Helps
Regardless of the type of breast or chest surgery you’ve undergone, your body experiences a healing process that involves inflammation, scar tissue formation, and potential changes in sensation. Post-surgical massage helps by:

• Reducing Swelling & Fluid Build-Up – Lymphatic drainage techniques encourage the body to move excess fluid out of the surgical area, decreasing discomfort and speeding up recovery.
• Softening Scar Tissue – Gentle massage helps break down adhesions and thickened scar tissue, improving flexibility and minimizing tightness. This is especially important for mastectomy patients who may experience restricted movement in the chest and shoulders.
• Easing Pain & Numbness – Many people experience nerve sensitivity or numbness after surgery. Massage can stimulate circulation, support nerve healing, and reduce hypersensitivity over time.
• Enhancing Mobility & Comfort – Surgery can cause tightness in the chest, underarms, and shoulders. Massage helps restore range of motion, preventing long-term stiffness and discomfort.
• Supporting Emotional Healing – Touch therapy is not just about physical benefits. Many individuals experience emotional challenges post-surgery, and massage can provide a sense of connection, relaxation, and self-care.

What to Expect in a Post-Surgical Massage
Your Registered Massage Therapist will customize each session based on your surgery type and stage of healing. Early on, treatments may focus on gentle lymphatic drainage to reduce swelling without putting pressure on healing tissue. As recovery progresses, techniques may include myofascial release to address tightness, scar tissue mobilization to soften the skin, and gentle stretching to restore movement.
Sessions are always performed with your comfort in mind. If you have any concerns about pressure, positioning, or sensation changes, your massage therapist will work with you to create a safe and supportive experience.

When to Start Post-Surgical Massage
Most surgeons recommend waiting 4-6 weeks before starting hands-on treatments, but light lymphatic drainage may be possible earlier if approved by your doctor. It’s important to work with a Registered Massage Therapist who is experienced in post-surgical care to ensure proper technique and timing.

If you’ve recently had a mastectomy, breast augmentation, or top surgery, massage therapy can be a powerful tool to enhance your recovery, improve your comfort, and help you reconnect with your body. Book today to learn how we can support your healing journey.

-- Dr. Susan Newman, RMT, R.Ac, TCMD