Pressotherapy and lymphatic drainage massage both aim to encourage the natural movement of lymphatic fluid around the body, so it is no surprise we are often asked which one to book. They feel quite different, they are carried out in different ways and they suit slightly different needs.
Here is how we explain the difference to clients, so you can choose with confidence.
The short version
Lymphatic drainage massage is a hands-on treatment carried out by one of our therapists at Simply Contoured Aesthetics.
Pressotherapy uses specialised compression boots and controlled air pressure, and it is offered at our wellness studio, Simply Contoured Wellness, which is booked separately.
Neither one is "better". They simply do different jobs, and some clients use both.
What happens in a lymphatic drainage massage
Our Simply Contoured Aesthetic Method™ Lymphatic Drainage Treatment combines three things in one treatment: manual lymphatic drainage, Brazilian lymphatic drainage techniques, and targeted abdominal and gut work.
The manual techniques are gentle and rhythmic, designed to encourage healthy lymphatic flow and support the movement of excess fluid. The Brazilian techniques focus on enhancing your natural contours for a more sculpted, defined appearance. The abdominal work makes it particularly popular with clients who experience feelings of bloating, digestive discomfort or abdominal heaviness.
Because it is done by hand, every treatment is adapted to you. We focus on the areas and concerns that matter most to you on the day.
Appointments are one hour. The hands-on time is slightly less, to allow for consultation, preparation, changing and any aftercare advice. Many clients find it deeply relaxing.
If you would like to know more about what the massage itself is doing, we cover it in what lymphatic drainage massage does to your body.
What happens in a pressotherapy session
Pressotherapy is a non-invasive lymphatic drainage treatment. You lie back and relax while specialised compression boots gently compress your legs in a rhythmic sequence, using controlled air pressure to encourage fluid movement and support circulation.
It is pain-free, there is no downtime, and you can carry on with your day straight afterwards.
It can be particularly good for anyone who:
- Spends long periods standing or sitting
- Exercises regularly and wants support with muscle recovery and feelings of post-exercise soreness
- Experiences tired or heavy legs
- Simply wants to support their lymphatic and circulatory health
Appointments are 45 minutes, with the treatment time itself slightly less to allow for consultation, preparation, changing and aftercare advice.
The main differences
Hands or boots. Lymphatic drainage massage is carried out by a therapist using her hands. Pressotherapy is carried out by the compression boots, with a consistent, rhythmic pressure.
Where it works. Pressotherapy boots work on the legs. Lymphatic drainage massage focuses on the areas most relevant to you and includes targeted abdominal and gut work.
Tailoring. A therapist can adjust the massage as she goes, spending longer where you need it. Pressotherapy is adjusted around your routine and goals, but it is the same gentle sequence each time.
Contouring. The Brazilian techniques in our massage are there to enhance your natural contours. Pressotherapy is more about circulation, the feeling of lightness and relieving heavy legs, although it may also help improve the appearance of cellulite.
Time. One hour for the massage, 45 minutes for pressotherapy.
How often. For lymphatic drainage massage we recommend once a month for ongoing maintenance, and we also offer courses of five. Pressotherapy can be part of your routine weekly or monthly, depending on your needs, lifestyle and goals.
Cost. Lymphatic drainage massage is £140 a session, or £560 for a course of 5 sessions. Pressotherapy is £20 a session. There is also an Annual Wellness Pressotherapy Package of 48 sessions for £480, and cancel-anytime memberships from £49 a month. You can see everything on our pricing page.
Which one suits you?
You might lean towards lymphatic drainage massage if:
- You would like a hands-on treatment tailored to you on the day
- Feelings of bloating or abdominal heaviness are your main concern
- You would like a more defined, contoured appearance
- You want a treatment that combines relaxation with targeted work
You might lean towards pressotherapy if:
- Tired, heavy legs are what bother you most
- You train regularly and want something for recovery
- You would like a relaxing treatment you can fit in weekly without a big commitment
- You prefer to lie back and switch off rather than have hands-on massage
If you are still unsure, get in touch and tell us what you are hoping for. We would much rather point you to the right treatment than the wrong one.
Can you have both?
Yes. Pressotherapy can be used as a standalone treatment or alongside other lymphatic and wellness treatments, so it does not have to be one or the other. If you would like to combine them, speak to us and we can talk through what fits your needs and routine.
If you have had surgery
If you are recovering from cosmetic surgery such as liposuction, a tummy tuck, fat transfer or a BBL, the treatment we provide is our specialist post-operative lymphatic drainage massage. It is different from a standard lymphatic drainage massage, and we are Level 4 Advanced Specialists in Post-Operative Lymphatic Drainage Massage.
It can generally begin from three days after surgery, providing your surgeon has cleared you and there are no complications or contraindications. You can read more on our post-surgery aftercare page.
Please do not book pressotherapy, or any other treatment, during your recovery without checking with your surgeon first and talking to us.
What neither treatment can do
Neither treatment is a quick fix, and neither is a weight loss treatment. They cannot diagnose or treat a medical condition, and we cannot promise a particular result, because every body responds differently. How much evidence there is also varies between treatments, so we prefer to explain what each one involves and what clients come to us for.
Please check with your GP or surgeon before booking either treatment if:
- You have a new or unexplained swelling
- You have lymphoedema or another diagnosed condition
- You are pregnant
- You are taking medication you are unsure about
- You have recently had surgery
Getting the most from either one
Whichever you choose, what you do outside the clinic matters too. We recommend drinking approximately 2 to 3 litres of water throughout the day, unless you have been advised by your doctor or another healthcare professional to restrict your fluid intake.
Alongside that, a balanced diet, regular movement and good rest all complement your treatments. Regular sessions are what help you maintain the benefits, rather than one or two treatments on their own.