Presso Therapy

Pressotherapy (presso therapy) is a non-invasive compression treatment in which sequential air pressure is applied from the soles of the feet up to just below the chest to speed up lymphatic circulation. It helps the body clear excess fluid trapped in the tissues and suits people with swelling, heavy legs or visible cellulite, as well as anyone supporting a regional slimming or body-firming program.

What is pressotherapy and how does it work?

Pressotherapy is a sequential compression treatment that mimics the natural direction of lymph flow. Air-chambered sleeves placed around the legs, hips and abdomen are inflated and deflated by the device in a set order. The pressure starts at the feet and moves upward, guiding fluid that has collected between the tissues into the lymphatic vessels and back into circulation.

Unlike the blood, the lymphatic system has no pump of its own; it relies largely on muscle movement. Standing or sitting for long periods, inactivity and hormonal changes can all slow it down. Pressotherapy produces an effect similar to manual lymphatic drainage, but with even, controlled pressure delivered by a device.

What is pressotherapy used for?

It is used as a supportive treatment for complaints linked to fluid retention and sluggish circulation:

• Swelling and edema: puffiness in the legs, ankles and abdomen caused by fluid build-up.
• Visible cellulite: where cellulite is accompanied by fluid retention, it can help the skin look smoother, which is why it is often part of cellulite treatment programs.
• Heavy, tired legs: a relief for people who stand at work or sit at a desk for long hours.
• Body contouring programs: combined with regional slimming and firming treatments to support their effect.

For swelling caused by a medical condition, such as lymphedema, pressotherapy should only be planned after assessment and approval by the treating physician.

What happens during a session?

A session takes about 30 minutes and you lie down throughout. Before the first treatment, your health status, medications and complaints are reviewed. The sleeves are then fitted around the legs and, if needed, the abdomen, and the pressure level and cycle speed are adjusted to suit you.

During treatment you will feel a wave of compression travelling up the legs. Most people describe it as a relaxing, massage-like sensation. You can return to your normal routine straight afterwards.

How many sessions are needed and how long do results last?

At our clinic pressotherapy is usually planned as a course of 10 sessions, although the number and frequency vary from person to person depending on the complaint. Many people report that their legs feel lighter after the first few sessions.

The improvement in swelling and cellulite appearance is not permanent. Keeping it depends on regular movement, drinking enough water, a balanced diet and, where needed, maintenance sessions. Our dietitian can help you with a nutrition plan.

Can pressotherapy be combined with other treatments?

Yes; pressotherapy is often one part of a wider program. At our clinic in Etiler it is planned after a medical assessment, either on its own or alongside other body shaping methods such as radiofrequency and cellulite treatments. In these combinations it supports the program by helping to remove excess fluid from the tissues.

Does pressotherapy have side effects?

When applied correctly, serious side effects are not expected. After a session you may notice a temporary increase in urination, mild tiredness or brief discomfort from the pressure. The pressure is set so that it does not hurt; if you feel pain during treatment, tell the practitioner straight away.

Who should not have pressotherapy?

Although it is generally well tolerated, it is not used, or is postponed, in the following situations:

• A history or suspicion of deep vein thrombosis (blood clot)
• Heart failure or uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Advanced kidney failure
• Open wounds, active infection or serious skin disease in the treatment area
• Pregnancy
• Active cancer treatment (only with the treating physician's approval)

If you develop sudden swelling, pain and redness in one leg, or shortness of breath, see a doctor without delay instead of booking pressotherapy.

Frequently asked questions

Does pressotherapy help you lose weight?

Pressotherapy is not a weight-loss or fat-burning method on its own. Because it helps the body clear excess fluid, it can reduce measurements and the feeling of bloating. For lasting results it is combined with diet, exercise and, if needed, targeted body treatments.

Is pressotherapy painful?

No, it is generally not painful. When the sleeves inflate you feel a squeezing sensation in the legs, which most people find relaxing, much like a massage. The pressure is adjusted to your comfort.

How often should pressotherapy be done?

The frequency is set by the doctor according to your complaint; a course is usually planned as a few sessions a week. Once the course is complete, occasional maintenance sessions may be recommended to keep the effect.

What should I do after a session?

Drinking plenty of water and staying active during the day supports the drainage effect. It is best to avoid long periods of sitting still and very salty food.

Does pressotherapy work for cellulite?

It can help the skin look smoother, especially where cellulite comes with fluid retention. Because cellulite is not caused by fluid alone, the best results usually come from combining it with other cellulite treatments and lifestyle changes.

This content is for information only and does not replace a medical consultation. To find out whether pressotherapy is right for you, please get in touch with us.