Approved continuing education provider in the UK with the Federation of Holistic Therapists and by NCBTMB and CE Broker in the USA
Manual Lymphatic Therapy™️
Build stronger lymphatic foundations through structured, clinically informed teaching and guided practical learning.
Advanced MLD & Treatment Protocols
Develop the knowledge and clinical judgement required to work more safely and effectively with postoperative aesthetic and cosmetic plastic surgery patients.
Lipoedema Liposuction Aftercare
A specialist pathway focused on the recovery needs of patients after lipoedema reduction surgery.
What Makes the Academy Different
The Aftercare Academy exists to strengthen standards in postoperative decongestive therapies through disciplined teaching, careful clinical decision-making, and continued support. We teach the clinical thinking behind treatment, not just the sequence. Our focus is on what is appropriate, when it is appropriate, and how to adapt safely to more complex presentations.
Structured Learning
Each program builds step by step, so theoretical understanding is in place before hands-on teaching begins and knowledge translates into practice with clarity.
Assessment-led Certification
Certification reflects demonstrated understanding and application of clinical knowledge, not attendance alone. Standards are maintained across every programme.
Clinical Relevance
Our teaching is shaped by direct clinical experience, collaboration with surgeons and specialist clinicians, and a consistent focus on patient safety and recovery outcomes.
Continued Guidance
Training with us marks the start of an ongoing professional relationship, with graduate support, mentorship options, and access to a community of like-minded practitioners.
Clinical Leadership
The Aftercare Academy is founded and led by Petra Erving, a specialist in Manual Lymphatic Therapy and Decongestive Therapies with more than two decades of clinical experience across hospital lymphoedema clinics, hospice care, private practice, and plastic surgery clinics.
Petra has presented at the MLDUK surgery study day and at the CAPSCO UKAAPS annual meeting for plastic surgeons, on the role of the lymphatic system in optimising recovery after surgery. She was also invited by the National Lymphedema Network to present a one-day workshop on recovery after lipo-abdominoplasty surgery at their annual conference in Nashville, TN, USA.
"When I refer a patient for postoperative lymphatic drainage, I am looking for a therapist who understands the surgery, works within their scope of practice and contacts me with any concerns they may have. This doesn't happen routinely across the board. I am more confident sending my patients to therapists who have had this kind of training." Fulvio Urso-Baiarda, Plastic Surgeon
MEET PETRAWhat Our Graduates Say
Feedback from therapists who have strengthened their knowledge, confidence, and professional practice through training with The Aftercare Academy.
"Before the workshop, I honestly don't think I would have taken a patient who had undergone a lower body lift because I wouldn't have known how to approach it. Now I know exactly how to approach that patient, what areas need to be addressed, the direction I need to work, and the appropriate pressure to use."
Suzanne, MLD Therapist, 2025 Workshop Graduate
"This training course was a 'game changer' for me, a turning point. Initially I was concerned that it seemed very pricey compared to the pre and post operative training that I had done with another school. However, that course had left me feeling unconvinced and underprepared for the post operative patients I had seen. Now I feel secure in my skills and abilities to offer these clients a full, professional service that I can be proud of."
Lucy Culshaw, MLD Therapist, Lymphoedema Therapist, 2026 Workshop Graduate
"Very detailed and well taught class. I feel so much more clear on how to confidently work with post-op clients in the first few weeks after surgery and beyond. The sequences I learned for the different surgeries are so valuable, and having the corrections and encouragement from Petra has helped me to fine tune and improve my techniques."
Heather Gall, 2026 Workshop Graduate
2027 Upcoming Workshops
In-person training supported by structured pre-course learning and guided practical teaching.
Manual Lymphatic Therapy
January 2027
25th to 29th - Stormont Hotel, Belfast
(1 place available)
July 2027
Liverpool TBC
Book Your Suitability Call
Advanced MLD & Treatment Protocols
May 2027
10th to 14th - Berkshire Grove Hospital, Maidenhead, UK
(3 places available)
September 2027
27th to 1st October - Wood MediSpa, Devon, UK
(9 places available)
Book Your Suitability Call
Your Next Step in Postoperative Care
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