Lymphatic drainage massage has become a social media sensation, with creators like Abbey Alexandra sharing before-and-after videos that promise to "flatten" stomachs and create a "snatched waist." The technique, adapted from a legitimate medical treatment, attracts celebrity endorsements from figures including Maya Jama and Hailey Bieber. However, experts warn that the dramatic visual transformations shown online may not reflect what is actually happening to the body, and that healthy individuals have little medical need for these treatments.
What do the videos show?
Social media content promoting lymphatic massage typically features a woman standing sideways, facing forward, or lying down with her stomach displaying a slight outward curve—a completely normal appearance. The video then shows methodical circular massage motions that appear to drain fluid away. By the conclusion, the stomach looks flatter, though often slightly reddened.
However, Dr Ella Guest, senior research fellow and health psychologist at the Centre for Appearance Research at the University of the West of England, urges caution when interpreting these images.
"These images might be altered using photo-editing tools or filters, people standing in particular poses, use of lighting, lots could even be AI-generated,"she explains.
"I think stopping to reflect on what you see and questioning whether it looks realistic, or if it's very aligned with beauty standards, can be useful. Remember, if something looks too good to be true, it probably is."
How does the lymphatic system work?
The lymphatic system functions as a network of channels and glands throughout the body that helps combat infection and remove excess fluid, according to the NHS. Dr Xand van Tulleken explains that this system removes excess fluid from tissues and supports immune function.
"When it is not working properly, it can contribute to swelling, which can be a condition called lymphoedema."
Lymphoedema typically affects individuals who have experienced cancers involving the lymph system or undergone treatment affecting lymph nodes. The condition causes swelling in various body parts, most commonly the arms or legs.
"In simple terms, the lymphatic system helps keep your body's fluid levels balanced, cleans up waste, and supports your defences against illness,"van Tulleken notes.
What does the massage actually do?
Manual lymphatic drainage, according to Dr Xand, is one of several treatments medical professionals employ
"if your lymphatic system isn't working as it should"."The technique involves applying
"light pressure" and "strategic massage techniques" to "clear" your lymphatic system.
"They'll coax excess lymph fluid from your swollen tissues toward your lymph nodes, where the lymph can reabsorb,"he explains, noting that lymph nodes are located in the armpits, neck and groin.
For individuals with conditions like lymphoedema, these massages can provide
"a 'safe way' to relieve symptoms"but are unsuitable for some people with pre-existing medical conditions. Dr Xand emphasises:
"No one should get their health advice from Instagram - far safer to use the NHS website, or consult your GP."
Abbey Alexandra, who has endometriosis causing bloating, began performing her own massage routines twice weekly after encountering social media posts about lymphatic drainage.
"I started using my hands and then I bought some wooden tools as well. After doing my routine, I personally feel less puffy and bloated, particularly around my stomach. Visually, I notice that my stomach looks a little more defined and I also feel lighter and more comfortable."
Is there scientific evidence it works?
Dr Xand states there is
"no need" for most people to perform lymphatic drainage treatments at home.
"There is very little high-quality evidence showing they provide meaningful or lasting benefits for healthy individuals, and it does not promote fat loss,"he says. According to UCLA Health's guidance updated on 1 October 2026, there is no substantial scientific evidence that lymphatic drainage massage produces the broader benefits claimed online, including weight loss.
While Dr Xand acknowledges that lymphatic drainage massages can feel
"relaxing"and some people
"can notice a temporary reduction in swelling",he emphasises that
"for most healthy people, regular movement, exercise and staying hydrated are all that's needed to support normal lymphatic function."
"Unless someone has a diagnosed lymphatic condition, I don't think anyone needs routine lymphatic drainage treatments, despite the growing popularity of these practices on social media."
Research on the duration of any benefits is limited. A study cited by CT Insider found facial massage increased cheek blood flow, but the effect lasted only 10 minutes after the massage.
Are there risks involved?
Cleveland Clinic lists blood clots, cellulitis, deep vein thrombosis, fever, infection, heart disease, kidney failure and stroke among reasons to avoid lymphatic massage. Some people also report fatigue, headaches or nausea following treatment. Medical professionals typically recommend these massages only for specific conditions and only when performed by trained therapists. A 2023 review of lymphatic massage in cosmetic procedures notes that postoperative recommendations commonly involve two to three sessions weekly during the first three to four weeks of recovery, performed by a suitably trained therapist.
What about the psychological impact?
For Abbey, the practice remains part of her routine.
"I know the visual difference is temporary... But I do like how I look and feel afterwards so it'll always be a part of my routine."
However, Dr Guest warns that pursuing a sculpted stomach could
"feed into people's insecurities"."
"We know that when we compare ourselves online and try to live up to these trends, we tend to scrutinise our appearance more and feel less satisfied with how we look,"she says.
"The reality is that healthy bodies come in a wide range of shapes and sizes."
Key Facts
- Lymphatic drainage massage is a legitimate medical treatment for conditions like lymphoedema, but most healthy individuals have no medical need for it
- Before-and-after videos may use photo-editing, filters, strategic posing, lighting or AI-generated imagery to create dramatic transformations
- Any temporary reduction in swelling typically lasts only minutes to hours, not the lasting results suggested by social media content
- Medical professionals recommend consulting a GP rather than relying on social media for health advice about these treatments
- Certain medical conditions make lymphatic drainage massage unsuitable or potentially dangerous
