The Alexandra Clinic

19/02/2026

16/02/2026

Our next support group is Monday 2nd March, 1-3pm.
Come and join us at St John's Information Centre.

An opportunity to meet new (and old) friends, chat about the weather!!! We're all doing alot of that at the min, in a safe and friendly environment.
We have a Lymphoedema therapist, if you any questions / concerns.
For more information contact Sue 07790205007

08/02/2026

Contact: 07790105007
thealexandraclinic@hotmail.co.uk

08/02/2026

Are you struggling with your scar after Breast cancer.? If you are experiencing tightness, restictd movement and Lymphoedema, either in the breast/trucal region or in your arm your scar maybe contributing.
I can help you. By working together, we can plan the best treatment that is unique to you.
If you would like more information to see how I can help give me a call
Sue: 07790105007
Email: thealexandraclinic@hotmail.co.uk

Why Surgery Changes the Lymphatic System (And Why Your Body Feels Different After)

This is an article many people didn’t know they needed —
until they read it and quietly say, “This explains everything.”

Surgery can be life-saving.
It can be necessary.
It can be the reason you are still here.

But what is rarely explained is how surgery changes the lymphatic system — sometimes permanently — and why the body may never feel the same afterward unless it’s supported correctly.

🌿 Surgery doesn’t only cut skin — it interrupts flow

The lymphatic system is made up of delicate vessels, valves, and nodes that run just beneath the skin and through connective tissue.

During surgery:
• Lymph vessels are cut or cauterised
• Nodes may be disturbed or removed
• Fascia is incised and heals with restriction
• Nerve communication is altered

Unlike blood vessels, lymph vessels are not always repaired or reconnected.

The body adapts — but adaptation is not the same as optimal flow.

🌿 Scar tissue changes drainage pathways

Scar tissue is not just a surface issue.

Internally, scars can:
• Pull on fascia
• Compress lymph vessels
• Create directional blockages
• Force lymph to reroute inefficiently

This is why swelling often appears above, below, or far away from the scar, not only at the surgical site.

The body isn’t confused — it’s compensating.

🌿 Common surgeries that impact lymph flow

Many people are surprised by how common this is:
• C-sections
• Appendectomy
• Gallbladder surgery
• Abdominal or pelvic surgery
• Breast surgery
• Orthopaedic surgery
• Brain or spinal surgery

Even surgeries done years or decades ago can influence today’s lymphatic patterns.

Time does not automatically restore flow.

🌿 “I healed… but I was never the same”

This is one of the most common phrases we hear.

After surgery, people may notice:
• A swollen or heavy abdomen
• An apron belly that won’t shift
• One-sided swelling
• Chronic inflammation
• Fluid retention
• Increased sensitivity to stress

This does not mean the surgery failed.

It means the lymphatic system was never fully supported afterward.

🌿 The nervous system remembers surgery

Surgery is a physical and neurological event.

The nervous system may remain in a protective state long after healing appears complete. When this happens:
• Lymph vessels remain constricted
• Drainage slows
• Inflammation lingers

The body must feel safe again before it will release.

This is why gentle, calming, rhythmical therapies are often far more effective than aggressive approaches post-surgery.

🌿 The good news — flow can be improved

While scars cannot be erased, function can be restored.

Supportive approaches may include:
• Manual lymphatic drainage
• Scar mobilisation
• Fascia-focused work
• Breath-based techniques
• Nervous system regulation
• Gentle, consistent movement

Healing after surgery is not about pushing harder —
it’s about restoring communication and flow.

💚 A message your body wants you to hear

Your body didn’t betray you.
Your body adapted to survive.

And with the right support, it can learn to flow again.

If you’ve ever felt:
“I healed… but something changed”
This article is for you.

Written with care by Bianca Botha, CLT, RLD, MLDT, CDS
Founder of Lymphatica – Lymphatic Therapy & Body Detox Facility

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your health regimen.

07/02/2026

05/02/2026

A quick reminder that we have our first evening meet this evening Thursday 5th Feb, 6.30 - 8pm at the Holiday Inn.
Its an opportunity to meet with others who are living with Lymphoedema and Lipoedema and share your experiences. Its also an opportunity to chat with our Lymphoedema Nurse and Lymphoedema therapist, who between them have over 40yrs experience.
Looking forward to seeing you.
Please share if you know anyone that might benefit from seeing this post.

04/02/2026

Today is world cancer day. We recognise all those affected by cancer every day.

02/02/2026

Our first evening support group of 2026 is Thursday 5th Feb 6.30 - 8pm.
We are a friendly group and look forward to meeting old and new members.
For more information contact Sue: 07790105007

29/01/2026

Along with MLD(Manual Lymphatic Drainage) I use DOT,or Deep Oscillation Therapy.
You can find me listed on the therapist list @ PhysioPod UK Limited. If you visit the website it explains what DOT is.

Below are before and after photos where I used a combination of MLD and DOT to help treat two different conditions.
• a burn to the thigh
• a scar from a removal of melanoma.
(shared with kind permission)

26/01/2026

MLDuk is my registrared body. This means that I cover all the requirements in my Qualification (Vodder Level 3 ) and my continuous personal development to be listed on the Find a Therapist listing's.
MLDuk also has leaflet/ information about various issues that affect the Lymphatic system....
Here is just one example of the articles you may find helpful.

We have a collection of mini guides on our website, discussing how Manual Lymphatic Drainage can help with certain conditions, including breast cancer. Visit our website for the full PDF guides

20/01/2026

NOT ALL LEG SWELLING IS THE SAME!!!

We mostly associate Lymphoedema as Secondary to cancer but that isnt the case. There are a number of reasons why people have Lymphoedema.
Have a read of this article, it may resonate with you or someone you know....

If you would like more information on how the Alexandra Clinic may be able to help
Call 077090105007

20/01/2026

Scar Therapy after breast cancer surgery.

Book a treatment if you are experiencing:
✔️ Puckering, thick, raised or wide scars
✔️ Iternal scar tissue after mastectomy, lumpectomy or reconstruction
✔️ Cording or limited arm movement.
✔️ Pain and sensitivity.
✔️ Capsular contacture.
✔️ Lymphoedema.

Your appointment will include a special scar massage - at the right pace and pressure to suit you - plus advice for caring for your scar at home.

Call Sue, Lymphoedema and Oncology Scar Practitioner on 07790105007 for more information.