Reasons you should wear a compression garment after surgery
If you have a liposuction or are planning to have a cosmetic surgery like breast augmentation, it is possible that your surgeon has recommended the use of a compression garment.
After surgery, your surgeon will give you all the instructions related to how to manage your recovery process. The correct use of a garment with the right compression is important for your recovery. Garments are expensive and uncomfortable to wear; therefore, invest in a good quality one for better comfort. As experts in this field, we want to answer some of the most common questions about the importance of wearing them. and how it can impact the final results.
What are compression garments?
Compression garments are pieces of clothing that fit tightly your skin. They are made of an elastic fabric (lycra or latex) and cloth. It is elastic and sturdy at the same time. They apply constant and uniform pressure to the treated area. They are sized to fit the contours of your body and according to the type of surgery you have.
How long should I wear the compression garment?
It depends on the type of surgery you have and your surgeon’s recommendations. For most procedures you will be required to wear the garment for at least 4 to 6 weeks. The compression garment must be worn 24/7 even when you sleep, you will be only allowed to take it off when you shower. It is recommended to have two garments, so you can have one for change. . Invest in a good quality garment as this influences the outcome of the surgery.
What surgeries need a compression garment to be worn?
Some of the more common surgeries are:
- Tummy tuck surgery
- BBL
- Breast augmentation surgery
- All liposuctions related treatments
- Breast lift surgery
- And more
Why should I wear a compression garment after surgery?
To protect your incisions
It works as one more layer to protect your healing incisions even when they are covered with surgical tape, gauze or bandages. It keeps bacteria away from the incision. Besides, it works providing padding if there is an unexpected bump in the surgery area.
It improves your circulation
Blood clots are one of the most dangerous risks after surgery. They can develop anywhere due to bad circulation. However, compression garments improve your circulation reducing the risk of blood clots. In addition, they reduce inflammation, haemorrhage and post- op pain.
It maintains your new contour
The compression garment applies pressure on the treated area, helping to ensure that your body contour heals with the desired shape.
It reduces pain
The pressure applied by the garment helps you reduce the pain or make it more bearable when you cough, laugh or sneeze.
It also helps:
- The uniform healing of the skin.
- It helps the skin to attach to the muscle.
- To reduce fibrosis.
- Reduce inflammation.
- To hold the tissue in place.
- Preventing seroma and lymphedema.
- Reducing bruises.
- Correcting your posture.
- Keeping grafts in proper position.
- Reducing fluid build-up.
What happens if you don’t wear a compression garment after liposuction?
It will affect the desired result of your surgery as the garment will help you with contouring; pain management; water retention; inflammation; blood clot and overall healing. Remember the compression garment will help you to hold the tissue together while the tissue is healing.
How tight should your garment be after liposuction?
The garment should be tight enough to give you body contouring, and enough compression to reduce water retention and reduce inflammation. You should be able to do daily tasks without feeling too much discomfort and this can be achieved with a moderated compression garment in the first week. After the second to 3rd week, you should move to a higher compression garment for better results.
Can I sleep without my compression garment?
Yes, You will need to wear a compression garment to bed for the first four weeks. For most procedures like tummy tucks, BBLs, lipo and body lifts, you will wear it full time for four weeks including when you sleep. You can take the garment off to go to sleep after 4 weeks.
Remember that before wearing your compression garment, you should cover the incisions with gauze, bandages, or silicone strips to avoid any irritation. The proper use of it will lead you to the expected outcomes.
We hope this information is useful. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always glad to help. If you like this blog, please share!
