Tummy tuck compression garments how long

When skin and muscle are elevated, you want them to heal in the correct position. One goal of compression garments is to encourage tissue to re-adhere to your abdominal wall by closing the space with gentle, constant pressure. Compression may help tissues re-adhere exactly as intended by keeping everything in its proper place. Compression garments serve many purposes to help aid your recovery after a tummy tuck, lipo or body lift. Some of the key benefits include:. Patients typically wear a compression garment for weeks following larger body contouring procedures on average.

For minor procedures, two weeks may be enough. If you find wearing a post-surgical garment uncomfortable, it is worth mentioning it to your surgeon. They may be able to make adjustments or advise you on how to make things feel a bit more comfortable as your recover. After surgery, many surgeons recommend wearing the garment day and night for the first weeks, except to shower.

Of course, this can vary depending on the exact procedure and extent of surgery. During the second phase of recovery usually weeks , you may only need to wear the garment during the daytime.

Some surgeons recommend wearing it around the clock, even in recovery phase two, if you can tolerate it. This is a tricky question. Some surgeons use the words interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same thing. Both are post-surgical devices that apply gentle pressure to promote healing and reduce swelling. Many patients will initially wear a binder first thing after a tummy tuck.

Binders are a type of wrapping that is typically made from a stretchy, elastic material with a Velcro closure. The concept is similar to an Ace bandage that you might find in the first aid aisle of the pharmacy.

A tummy tuck binder is larger and a bit sturdier than that, but you get the idea. A compression garment is more like an article of clothing. Instead of Velcro, compression garments usually have hooks or zippers for closure. They are also typically larger than compression binders.

The larger surface area is useful for patients who have undergone multiple body contouring procedures in areas like the belly, hips and thighs. You may be asked to wear both types at different stages of your recovery. Some surgeons prefer to use only one or the other. It is safe and necessary to remove your compression garment when showering.

Most patients are cleared to shower 48 hours after a tummy tuck, liposuction or a body lift. When you are done bathing, gently pat yourself dry with a clean towel. When your skin is completely dry, it is time to put your compression garment back on. It is important to choose a high-quality device to minimize your post-op discomfort. This will make your recovery a little easier. Beldholm advises his patients to wear a compression garment for six weeks following larger surgeries such as body lifts and tummy tucks.

For smaller procedures like breast augmentation or a breast lift, you will be placed in a surgical bra for four weeks. It will probably be more uncomfortable. It is a decision you will likely regret. It is included the price. In fact, you will get two! The quality of a compression garment is very important. It can vary depending on the manufacturer. Here are some features to look for buying one:. Zippers should glide smoothly.

You do not want to get stuck tugging on a stuck zipper after surgery. Hooks should be easy to fasten without strain. Understandably, you will be most sensitive the days immediately following surgery. Your caretaker will be able to assist in putting the garment on and removing it if you find it too difficult to do on your own at first. Yes, typically you will need to wear a compression garment to bed for the first four weeks.

For extensive procedures likes tummy tucks 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 during weeks 5 and 6.

For smaller procedures, Dr. Keep in mind there is typically no harm in wearing the garment longer or more often than recommended, bedtime included. Some women even report feeling more secure when they have it on. Yes, it is safe to remove the garment for a short time. You will need to remove it when you take a shower, for example. The garment will also need to be laundered to keep it fresh and clean.

It is a good idea, however, to purchase a second compression garment so you do not have to rush doing the laundry. You may also want to remove your compression garment for a short time if you feel you need a break from it. While you should strive to wear it as much as possible in the weeks after surgery, you can take it off occasionally if you need a few minutes of relief. When you are not wearing the garment, it is a good idea to wear clothing that is soft and loose.

This will make the fabric less likely to disturb your incisions. Avoid strenuous activities or lifting anything weighing more than 2. Leaving it off for a couple of hours on occasion will not result in any irreparable damage, but you might notice increased swelling and puffiness afterwards. It is worth noting that repeatedly removing your compression garment and putting it back on can increase the risk of seroma. Tummy tuck surgery consistently remains at the top of the list of most in-demand cosmetic surgeries in Beverly Hills.

This is not surprising, as the tummy tuck can help both men and women address a long list of concerns and achieve a dramatic transformation. After weight loss, patients often benefit from the skin and fat removal aspect of A tummy tuck.

At the same time, many women utilize the tummy tuck as a solution for restoring their pre-pregnancy figures. While the outcome of a tummy tuck can undoubtedly be stunning, patients must understand what to expect during the recovery period and adhere to the postoperative guidelines closely.

One of the most critical aspects of the tummy tuck recovery is the use of a compression garment. Award-winning board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Timothy Katzen and the stellar team at J. Timothy Katzen, M. Beverly Hills are committed to helping patients achieve their ideal cosmetic results and enjoy a safe, healthy, and efficient recovery after a tummy tuck by providing the most advanced surgical techniques and tools available as well as detailed postoperative instructions.

Learn more about what you can expect during tummy tuck recovery here, including why a compression garment is essential for proper healing and a gorgeous outcome. A tummy tuck is an exciting body contouring procedure that involves skin removal, muscle tightening, and other advanced techniques to address a wide variety of cosmetic and functional concerns, and, ultimately, sculpt a smooth, taut, beautiful midsection.

A tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia with a board-certified anesthesiologist. The tummy tuck usually takes about 2 — 3 hours to complete. Katzen will place an incision just above the pubic area on the lower abdomen.

The length of the incision will depend on how much excess skin needs to be removed. For patients with diastasis recti, or separated abdominal muscles, Dr. Katzen can reposition the abdominal fascia and reinforce the muscles. Liposuction is also commonly performed during tummy tuck surgery to remove stubborn deposits of fat.

How long will a compression garment have to be worn? Request A Consultation Are you interested in learning more about plastic surgery options or post-op care in Minneapolis? Share this post. Share on facebook. Share on twitter. Share on linkedin. Share on print. Share on email. Back to All Blogs. Contact Us. Instagram Facebook-f Twitter Youtube.

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