Post Surgical Compression Garments

Plastic surgery is by far the fastest way to achieve your desired body and appearance. But like any surgical procedure, it comes with normal side effects like swelling, bruising and scarring. In addition to proper rest and good nutrition, almost all plastic surgeons recommend post surgical compression garments to accelerate the healing process and achieve the best results.

A compression garment helps alleviate the level of bruising, edema (swelling), bleeding and other complications to facilitate faster recovery.  Since liposuction entails the injection of large volumes of fluid into the targeted area to remove fat easily, the pressure created by post liposuction compression garments improves blood circulation and pushes the extra fluids back towards deeper body tissues bringing oxygen and nutrients to the surgical areas.

Correctly fitted plastic surgery garments also hold the newly shaped skin firmly against the body to properly mold body contours without limiting body movement. The use of compression garments after liposuction expedites the healing process to allow the body to recuperate quickly.

Depending on the treated area, post surgical compression garments may include a head or chin wrap (facial compression wrap), compression bra or breast augmentation wrap, compression sleeve (arm compression garment), abdominal and flank area support garment (compression pants) or an abdominal binder. Compared to ordinary girdles and other skin-tight workout clothes, compression garments are designed to be worn daily during the recovery stage.  With features such as outside seams for comfort and a double-tummy panel for efficacy, medical compression garments are made from soft, lightweight, stretchable and breathable fabric which is designed to maintain its elasticity. Compression garments are constructed to provide users ultimate comfort and are latex-free to avoid any allergic reactions.

A compression garment should fit well to give proper support and function in the right areas. And since it can be inevitably stained and soiled, it is advisable to have at least two post surgical compression garments. This way you can wear the second garment while the other is being laundered which also ensures you maintain steady compression.

Every doctor has a protocol for wearing plastic surgery garments. The length of time to wear a garment primarily depends on the type of procedure done. Generally speaking, most surgeons recommend wearing compression garments 24 hours a day during the first week or so following the surgery and reducing the use of the garment over the next two to eight weeks.  Just be sure to follow your doctor’s advice to achieve the best outcome.