Compression garments after a procedure: why and for how long?

After some procedures on the body, you wear compression garments for a while. This can be a compression suit, a pair of shorts, a band or a support bra. It is not the most comfortable phase of the recovery, but it has a clear reason. In this article you will read why compression is important, how long you wear it and what can make wearing it easier.

Why compression

After a procedure, the tissue reacts with swelling. Fluid is released in the treated area, and where tissue was detached, a space is created in which fluid can accumulate. Compression garments exert an even pressure on that area. That pressure is intended to:

• limit the swelling
• reduce the chance of fluid accumulation under the skin
• support the skin while it adapts to the new contour
• give support to the tissue and the wounds

With which procedures

After liposculpture you wear compression garments on the treated areas, for example a pair of shorts, a bodysuit or a band. After an abdominoplasty you wear a compression suit around the abdomen. After a breast augmentation or a breast lift you wear a support bra or compression bra. After a procedure on the neck or the face, a chin strap may be necessary.

You receive the compression garments at the clinic and wear them after the procedure.

How long

How long you wear compression depends on the procedure, the swelling and how your recovery progresses. With many procedures it is a matter of a few weeks, first day and night and afterwards sometimes only during the day. The doctor will tell you during the check-ups when you can phase it out.

What makes wearing it easier

• A good fit. The garment should sit firmly, but not pinch or cut in. If you feel tingling, a blue discolouration or pain on a pressure point, please get in touch.
• Avoiding folds. A fold in the fabric creates more pressure locally and can leave an imprint or an irregularity. Pull the garment on smoothly each time.
• A second item. With a spare you can wash one while you wear the other. Feel free to ask how to obtain a second item.
• A thin vest underneath. A seamless cotton vest under the compression suit can prevent chafing, if your doctor allows it.
• Help with putting it on. In the first few days, putting it on is often difficult. Let someone help you and take your time.

Moving with compression

With compression garments you can simply walk, and that is also recommended. Short walks keep the circulation going. Alternate light movement with sufficient rest. With sports and heavy lifting, you wait until your doctor gives the green light.

Ordinary clothing also sometimes fits differently over the compression in the first weeks. Loose trousers, dresses and tops that open at the front are easier then. Trousers with an elastic waistband press less on an abdomen that is still swollen. In addition, do not plan a long car journey or flight in the first weeks without discussing this with your doctor first, because sitting still for a long time slows down the circulation and can cause a deep vein thrombosis.

When to get in touch

Get in touch when the swelling suddenly increases sharply on one side, when the skin under the garment becomes red, warm and painful, or in case of a fever above 38.5 degrees. A painful, swollen calf is also a reason to call.

Patience with the swelling

Even with compression, the swelling only decreases gradually. After liposculpture and an abdominoplasty it takes a few months before the body has taken on its definitive shape, and that differs from person to person. What you see after two or three weeks is therefore not yet the final result.

Washing and care

Compression garments last best when you wash them according to the label, usually at a low temperature and without fabric softener. Let them air dry, not in the tumble dryer, so that the fabric retains its elasticity. While washing, you wear the second item.

Questions you can ask

How long do I wear the garment day and night? May I take it off to shower? What do I do if it pinches or if the swelling suddenly increases? When may I switch to ordinary clothing? May I already do sports or walk with the garment?

The compression can feel warm and somewhat constricting in the first few days. Still, do not stop on your own initiative, not even when it is hot or when you already feel well. When you may phase it out is best discussed with your doctor.

Making an appointment

Are you considering a procedure and would you like to know what the recovery requires in your case? Then make an appointment for a consultation, a first conversation. You can reach us on 050 97 79 30. Our clinic is located at Gruuthuselaan 7, 8020 Oostkamp.

This information is general in nature and does not replace a personal consultation.