esteticamairena provisional

Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system is tasked with collecting excess plasma in our tissues, generated from cellular exchange processes. Likewise, this system acts as a formidable filter to trap germs and waste from the body, making it a crucial component of the immune system.

It comprises a system of branched tubes that drain interstitial fluids. The lymphatic system is not a separate system from our body but is considered a part of the circulatory system, consisting of lymph, a mobile fluid that comes from the blood and returns to it through the lymphatic vessels.

provisional servicios

Lymph Fluid

Lymph fluid carries nutrients in suspension, mainly fats, and distributes white blood cells throughout the body. Lymph is similar to plasma but more diluted, containing only 5% of the proteins and 1% of the salts and extracts. It is composed of a bit of blood and other body fluids, collectively called interstitial fluid, accumulating in intercellular spaces.

Part of this interstitial fluid returns to the circulation through the blood capillary membrane, but most enter the lymphatic capillaries and form the lymph. When interstitial fluid enters the tiny lymphatic vessels, it is called lymph.

Lymph is a colorless and viscous fluid, its composition is similar to that of blood plasma, but its movement is slower than that of blood. Its volume accounts for 16% of the body in a person of normal weight and height. Lymph is made up of water, proteins, fats, cellular debris, and lymphocytes.

The functions of lymph are:

  • Nourishing tissues.
  • Repairing.
  • Manufacturing.
  • Participating in the body’s immune system.
    Lymph, along with all this interstitial fluid, collects particles that are too large to be absorbed by the capillary membrane, such as cell debris, fat globules, and small protein remains.
    Then, the lymph passes from the vessels to lymph nodes and is poured into the blood through veins located in the neck region. Thus, the lymphatic system is a secondary transport system.
esteticamairena provisional

Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes, or lymphatic nodules, are kidney-shaped and located along the course of the lymphatic vessels. Their function is to filter the lymph, that is, they retain, trap, and destroy pathogenic germs. They also act as small reservoirs of lymph where lymphocytes are produced. Lymph nodes work on diluting or concentrating lymphatic proteins, varying in size.

Lymph lacks its own pumping system; its circulation depends on the pressure of the circulatory system and the massaging effect of the muscles. Hence, from the tissues, the interstitial fluid passes to the interior of the thinnest lymphatic vessels called “lymphangions,” which join to form increasingly larger vessels, ending in the general circulation through two large channels:

  • The Thoracic Duct, also known as Cisterna Chyli: Measuring 40cm in length, it is where the lymphatic vessels of the lower limbs pour their content. It is located approximately at L1-L2 level. It ascends along the left side of the thoracic vertebrae and ends in the left brachiocephalic trunk: internal jugular vein or subclavian.
  • The Right Lymphatic Duct: Lymph from the right side of the head, neck, right arm, and right side of the thoracic wall enters the right brachiocephalic venous trunk through the Right Lymphatic Duct, which empties into the right subclavian vein.
  • For this reason, through massages, we can facilitate the return of lymph to the bloodstream. This specialized type of massage is what we call lymphatic massage or lymphatic drainage. Manual lymphatic drainage is a technique performed with the hands applying very soft, slow, and repetitive movements, in a way that favors the circulation of lymph, thereby improving edematous conditions, fluid retention, and inflammation. The lymphatic system works closely with the immune system, which is why manual lymphatic drainage significantly improves health and also has benefits on the nervous system, in addition to specifically treating different conditions. Thus, manual lymphatic drainage is another way to strengthen our immune system.
provisional servicios

When is manual lymphatic drainage recommended?

Manual lymphatic drainage is used in aesthetics to combat or improve the client’s health when:

  • Deep facial cleansing is needed.
  • There are wrinkles on the face.
  • There are bags under the eyes.
  • There is hair loss.
  • Cellulite (PEFE) is present.
  • There are complaints of heavy legs.
  • There are wrinkled hands.
  • It is an anti-stress method.
  • Before cosmetic surgeries.
  • After cosmetic surgeries.

When is manual lymphatic drainage not recommended?

Manual lymphatic drainage is contraindicated in cases where the client suffers or has suffered from:

  • Myocardial Infarction
  • Angina Pectoris
  • Edema due to decompensated heart failure
  • Purulent or suppurative area
  • Skin diseases
  • Nephrotic edema
  • Acute infections
  • Fever
  • Phlebitis, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis.

Book Your Appointment

Fill out the form and
we will contact you!