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Frequently Asked Questions: Post-Op Recovery, Injectables & More
At Aikana Esthetic Center in Annandale, VA, we believe informed patients achieve the best results. Our team of registered nurses, licensed estheticians, and a board-certified medical director answers your most common questions about post-op lymphatic drainage, injectables, weight management, and skin care.
Post-op recovery & lymphatic drainage
What is a lymphatic drainage massage and how does it work?
Lymphatic drainage massage uses gentle massage along your lymphatic channels to reduce fluid buildup (lymphedema) in the body. Your lymphatic system is a network of vessels and organs that filters and removes waste. Precise, gentle stimulation increases circulation, which promotes healing and lymphatic reabsorption. Your lymphatic system is an integral system that supports your physiological functioning, and lymphatic drainage massage works with your body's innate capability to heal itself.
How can lymphatic drainage massage help me after surgery?
Fluid buildup is expected after surgery. Lymphatic drainage massage helps reduce that buildup, supporting a faster recovery. Besides reducing swelling, these massages can help ease pain, improve blood flow, and lower the chance of fibrosis, an inflammatory response that causes hardening of the skin. Always follow your surgeon's recovery plan.
How many lymphatic drainage massages do I need for the best results?
Most patients benefit from 2 to 3 lymphatic drainage sessions per week during the first 3 to 4 weeks after surgery, when swelling and fluid buildup are most common. Every patient heals differently, so the exact number of sessions should be personalized to your body's needs and your surgeon's recommendations. Sessions should be performed by a licensed massage therapist trained in postoperative lymphatic techniques, like those at Aikana Esthetic Center.
Injectables
What are neuromodulators and how do they work?
Neuromodulators like Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport use the active ingredient botulinum toxin A. It blocks the chemical signal (acetylcholine) that tells muscles to contract, which softens lines and helps prevent new ones from forming. Given by Aikana's highly trained nurses in Annandale, VA, they are a safe and effective wrinkle treatment.
Will my fillers look natural?
Yes, that is the goal. At Aikana Esthetic Center in Annandale, our medical team of a board-certified doctor and experienced nurses places dermal fillers carefully to create soft, natural-looking results. Each treatment is tailored to enhance your features while keeping balance and harmony, so you look refreshed and confident, never overdone.
How long do dermal fillers last?
Most dermal fillers last between 6 and 12 months, depending on the treatment area and your body's response to the filler. During your consultation, we'll recommend the best option to achieve long-lasting, natural results that fit your goals.
Can I combine fillers or tox with other treatments?
Yes. Fillers and neuromodulators (like Xeomin or Botox) can be safely combined with other treatments. Our medical team can design a personalized plan that pairs injectables with advanced skin therapies such as Morpheus8, facials, or lymphatic treatments. During your consultation, we'll recommend the best combination for your goals.
Weight Management
What is semaglutide for weight management?
Semaglutide is an FDA-approved injectable that mimics a natural hormone
(GLP-1) to regulate appetite, control blood sugar, and increase feelings of fullness. This helps reduce cravings and supports gradual, sustainable weight loss when paired with healthy lifestyle changes. Every plan at Aikana is supervised by our medical team. Learn more on our Weight Management page.
Skin care
What facials and skin treatments does Aikana offer?
Our licensed estheticians offer facials for every skin type, from deep-cleansing treatments to chemical exfoliation and anti-aging options. For a special event, the Aik-Onic Facial combines radio frequency and lymphatic drainage in one hour, and Morpheus8 pairs microneedling with radio frequency to help improve skin texture and firmness.
Booking & policies
What services do you offer?
We offer pre- and post-operative care for face and body, body treatments, facials, injectables, Morpheus8, and Aikana signature massage therapies. Aikana also houses an esthetician who specializes in lash lifts and brow lamination. Questions about a service? Call or text us at (703) 655-8253. See all of our services.
Does Aikana Esthetic Center offer any discounts?
Yes. We run specials throughout the year around occasions like the holidays, Mother's Day, and Black Friday, and many of our treatment packages are offered at a discounted rate. Follow us on social media to stay informed about our latest specials.
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that cancellations or reschedules be made at least 48 hours in advance; changes after the 48-hour window incur a fee. All deposits made electronically or over the phone are non-refundable, and we allow a 10-minute grace period for late arrivals.
References
1. Marxen, T., Shauly, O., Goel, P., Tsan, T., Faria, R., & Gould, D. J. (2023). The utility of lymphatic massage in cosmetic procedures. Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum, 5. https://doi.org/10.1093/asjof/ojad023
2. Aldrich, M. B., Gross, D., Morrow, J. R., Fife, C. E., & Rasmussen, J. C. (2017). Effect of pneumatic compression therapy on lymph movement in lymphedema-affected extremities, as assessed by near-infrared fluorescence lymphatic imaging. Journal of Innovative Optical Health Sciences, 10(02), 1650049. https://doi.org/10.1142/s1793545816500498
3. Chi, A., Lange, A., Guimarães, M. V., & Santos, C. B. (2018). Prevenção e tratamento de equimose, edema e fibrose no pré, trans e pós-operatório de cirurgias plásticas. Revista Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica, 33(3), 343–454. https://doi.org/10.5935/2177-1235.2018rbcp0147
4. Park, M. Y., & Ahn, K. Y. (2021). Scientific review of the aesthetic uses of botulinum toxin type A. Archives of Craniofacial Surgery, 22(1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.7181/acfs.2021.00003