1/5 Stars -- Extremely Disappointed With My Postoperative Massage Experience…read more
I am extremely disappointed with my experience, especially considering the amount of money I paid and the condition I was in when I arrived.
I recently underwent emergency gallbladder removal surgery and decided to treat myself to a $150 postoperative lymphatic drainage massage to help support my recovery. As a veteran, I work hard for my money, and spending this amount on a massage was something I genuinely considered an investment in my healing and well-being. Unfortunately, I left feeling rushed, overlooked, and honestly, taken advantage of.
My appointment was scheduled for 11:00 AM, and I was taken back around 11:05 AM. Once inside, the massage therapist spent approximately 10 minutes talking with me while I was getting undressed and preparing for the session. I had also purchased an additional 15-minute TMJ massage.
Before we began, I specifically explained that I wanted attention focused on my legs and shoulders, particularly because I had been experiencing discomfort from residual gas following my surgery. I made it clear what areas I needed help with and why I was there.
Unfortunately, the session felt completely disorganized and poorly managed. The therapist spent a considerable amount of time on the TMJ portion, and I eventually had to remind her about my legs and ask how much time we had remaining so she could even begin addressing them. Had I not spoken up, I genuinely feel those areas may have been overlooked entirely.
At one point, I needed to use the restroom, which took approximately five minutes. Aside from that, I noticed the therapist repeatedly taking time to retrieve items and prepare things throughout the session, which made the massage feel interrupted and further reduced the amount of hands-on treatment I received.
The entire appointment concluded around 12:00 PM. Considering I paid $150 for a postoperative lymphatic massage AND purchased an additional 15-minute service, I expected my appointment to last considerably longer, approximately until 12:30 PM, based on my understanding of the services I booked. Instead, the actual hands-on treatment felt significantly shorter once the initial consultation, preparation, restroom break, and interruptions were factored in.
I have received lymphatic drainage massages in the past, so I had some familiarity with what to expect. This experience did not feel comparable. I did not feel that my concerns were adequately addressed or that the treatment was focused on the areas I had specifically requested.
What bothers me most is that I was only days out of emergency surgery and was still taking prescribed pain medication. I was not feeling completely like myself, and I trusted that I was walking into an environment where my condition would be treated with care, patience, and professionalism. Instead, I left wondering whether my vulnerable state and reduced awareness contributed to my receiving less time and attention than I had paid for. I cannot speak to anyone's intentions, but that is genuinely how this experience made me feel.
I am not someone who casually spends this kind of money on self-care. I wanted to do something nice for myself after an incredibly stressful medical emergency, and I was hoping to leave feeling cared for and reassured during my recovery.
Instead, I left upset, disappointed, and feeling like my money had been wasted.
For a business offering postoperative services, I would expect greater attention to a patient's condition, better communication, and more responsible time management. People recovering from surgery are trusting you with their comfort and well-being during an especially vulnerable time.
I truly wish my experience had been different, but I cannot justify the amount I paid for the level of service I received.
