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Northwest Face & Body

How Long to Wear a Compression Garment After Lipo?

Dr. Ludwig Allegra

June 28, 2024
How Long to Wear Compression Garment After Lipo

Are you considering liposuction to get rid of stubborn fat and unwanted sagging skin around the abdomen? Then you are on the right track, as through liposuction, you will say goodbye to the fat deposits and excess skin tissues in no time. Being a surgical procedure, you undoubtedly have to undergo a recovery period. But the good news is that by following post-surgery instructions, you can not only heal faster but also enjoy the maximum benefit of this transforming cosmetic procedure. One of the vital post-surgery cares is the use of compression garments. It accelerates the recovery process and promotes healing in a more effective way. Let’s discover in this article what these are and how long you need to wear compression garments after the surgery.

What is a Compression Garment?

This is a type of clothing that is specially designed to support recovery after a surgery. The compression garment is tight and fits perfectly around the body to support recovery by reducing swelling. Thus, after a liposuction, it is advisable to wear a compression garment according to the type of surgery you have undergone.

How Long Should You Wear a Compression Garment After Lipo?

The question is whether you have to wear it for a lifetime or just for a few months for a proper recovery. The duration may vary depending on factors like the type of liposuction and the patient’s own healing response. However, it is expected that you have to wear a compression garment no less than six weeks after the procedure. You can remove them only at the time of bathing or during wound care.

Upon discussing this with the surgeon, you can get into a compressed garment, which must be the right fit for you. It must be snug, but not extra tight. As swelling decreases, you can change the size of it. The important thing here to note is that as soon as size changes, compressed garments must also adjust to it to keep receiving its effects.

What If You Do Not Wear a Compression Garment?

While surgeons highly recommend going for compression garments, the decision completely depends on the patient’s will. Due to the uncomfortable feeling of tightness, patients might dislike it. To make up your mind, go through the following to understand the consequences of not wearing one:

  • Prolonged Swelling: Without a proper compression garment, swelling may last for a longer time. 
  • Risk of Uneven Results: There is a possibility that you will get uneven contouring of the body.
  • Risk of Unseen Complication: If you avoid wearing a compression garment, you might face other medical complications that can delay the recovery and healing process. 

Final Thought

It is important to remember that wearing compression garments is advised by surgeons, but it’s up to you to choose them. A perfectly fitted compression garment can enhance the healing process by suppressing swelling and supporting overall healing. Not wearing one can lead to delayed recovery time and increase further discomfort. Discuss with your surgeon about the right compression garment and make an informed decision.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Ludwig Allegra

Dr. Ludwig Allegra has provided Bellevue, Kirkland, and the surrounding areas with premier plastic surgery procedures for over two decades.