Lypposage is a type of hands-on therapy that combines advanced massage techniques for the purpose of reducing the presence of cellulite. Specifically, lypposage combines deep tissue massage with lymphatic drainage. Developed by renowned massage therapist and educator, Charles W. Wiltsie III, lypposage provides a safer and non-invasive alternative to liposuction.
Cellulite develops under the skin and is characterized by dimpling or lumpiness. In fact, the appearance of cellulite has been compared to cottage cheese, an unflattering image to most people. Typically found on thighs, hips and buttocks, cellulite forms as the result of an impaired flow of lymphoedema, the fluid that carries away cellular waste. It is thought that restricted lymphatic flow may be caused by poor circulation, perhaps from wearing tight undergarments such as pantyhose.
Unlike some other body systems, the lymphatic system has no hardware to rely upon to perform its primary function, the removal of toxins from cells. Instead, lymphatic flow must be stimulated by muscle contractions from deep breathing or exercising. Lypposage attempts to facilitate this process through the manual manipulation of muscle and connective tissue. This is achieved by targeting lymph nodes with invigorating massage, pressure, and gentle pumping movements.
Lifestyle and dietary changes are conducive to experiencing positive results from lypposage treatments. Drinking plenty of water, for instance, helps to promote adequate lymphatic flow. In addition, regular exercise can help to control weight and fat deposition. In addition, lypposage therapists typically recommend that processed and refined foods should be avoided since these usually contain unwanted sugars, hormones, preservatives, and additives.
Results from lypposage vary between individuals. Most often, the lypposage therapist will create a before profile of the client by documenting weight and body measurements before beginning treatments. This makes it possible for both client and therapist to track the progression of the therapy and its results. However, it should be noted that it often takes up to a dozen half-hour lypposage sessions before any substantial results are seen.
Several studies on the outcome of lypposage have shown that many people experience significant shrinking of waist, hip and thighs. In fact, many women reputedly lose one or two dress sizes without shedding any pounds whatsoever. However, lypposage therapy is a bit like making deposits to a bank account. In other words, it is necessary to maintain treatments in order to maintain results. Once initiated, lypposage therapy sessions should be scheduled annually at minimum.
Aside from saying goodbye to cellulite, lypposage may provide additional health-giving benefits. For one thing, it stimulates blood circulation and oxygen transport, which may help to deter heart disease and oxidative stress. In addition, many people report experiencing enhanced mood and increased stamina. Lypposage may not be appropriate for everyone, however, particularly those with certain medical conditions. A consultation with a licensed lypposage therapist is necessary in order to determine eligibility for this treatment.