Why Compression After Plastic Surgery Is Essential

What Is a Compression Garment?

When you hear the words "compression garment," you might think of Spanx—every celebrity's secret to slipping into a tight dress or pair of jeans. But that's not what we're talking about. What we're spotlighting today is post-surgery compression garments—a piece of clothing designed to aid your recovery and improve your results.

These garments come in different shapes and sizes, usually made from materials like nylon or lycra. They're available for almost every part of the body, whether for men or women. You can find compression garments like supportive bras, girdles, bodysuits, and more, tailored for plastic surgery procedures like breast augmentation and tummy tucks.

What Are the Benefits of Wearing a Compression Garment After Surgery?

At Guerra Plastic Surgery Center, we advise our patients to wear compression garments after surgery for the following reasons:

1. Reduces Swelling

When the body undergoes surgery, it naturally sends fluids to the area to aid healing. But if too much fluid builds up, it can lead to excessive swelling and discomfort, slowing down recovery. Compression garments work by helping the body absorb the excess fluid, reducing swelling and promoting a smoother recovery process.

2. Decreases Bruising

Bruising is bleeding beneath the skin due to damage to blood vessels. Wearing a compression garment applies pressure to the surgical area, reducing bleeding and limiting the amount of blood that surfaces on the skin. The faster you minimize bruising, the quicker you can see and enjoy your surgery's results.

3. Minimizes Scarring

Our board-certified plastic surgeons strive to minimize scarring by strategically placing incisions in less noticeable areas during your surgery. However, some scarring may still occur depending on factors such as genetics and the surgical technique used.

In addition to a scar treatment plan, wearing a compression garment applies pressure to the area, aiding in softening and flattening scars over time and gradually diminishing their appearance.

4. Enhances Comfort

A post-surgery compression garment consists of elastic and nylon materials, allowing them to stretch and support your tissue. It improves comfort during the healing and recovery period while safeguarding the surgical site.

If your custom-fit compression garment causes pain or discomfort, consult your plastic surgeon right away. Although a compression garment should fit snugly to fulfill its purpose, it should not cause discomfort or impede breathing.

5. Reduces Blood Clots and Infection

Going under the knife can be mentally and emotionally taxing, especially for first-time patients. Rest after surgery is beneficial for physical recovery and emotional well-being. It's your opportunity to relax and recuperate, helping you recharge physically and emotionally. However, reduced mobility post-surgery can hinder circulation, increasing the risk of blood clot formation. Wearing a compression garment encourages circulation and accelerates wound healing, thereby lowering the chances of blood clots and infection.

Read 7 Ways to Optimize Your Plastic Surgery Recovery and follow the recommendations to minimize complications, improve comfort, and promote a smoother recuperation process.

6. Improves Overall Results

Applying compression after procedures like a tummy tuck or body contouring exerts pressure across the treated areas. It encourages the skin to conform to the newly sculpted contours of your body, supporting your final results.

FAQs About Compression Garments After Plastic Surgery

Here's what you need to know about the importance of compression after surgery:

1. Should I wear a compression garment 24/7?

Plastic surgeons advise wearing compression garments around the clock for the first two weeks post-surgery, except during bathing (about 48 hours after the procedure). This duration may vary depending on the procedure and individual recovery pace.

2. For how long should I wear a compression garment?

Our board-certified plastic surgeons recommend wearing the garment for at least six weeks: day and night for the first two to three weeks, then half the day for the subsequent four to six weeks.

3. How snug should compression garments be?

Compression garments should apply gentle pressure, fitting smoothly on the skin without causing pain, discomfort, or impeding circulation. They should allow a hand to slide underneath without constriction.

4. Do I need to clean my compression garment?

A compression garment should always be clean to prevent infection. Having more than one and rotating them while washing ensures you always have a clean garment available for wear.

5. Is it safe to stop wearing compression garments?

Brief breaks, such as while showering, should be okay. Not wearing a compression garment for the recommended amount of time may prevent your body from adjusting to the new contours, impacting your results. As discussed, a compression garment is a must-have item for recovery after plastic surgery. Therefore, if you don't wear it as advised, it can raise the likelihood of the following: increased inflammation, swelling, bruising, scarring, discomfort, blood clotting, and infection.

6. How can your plastic surgeon help?

Guerra Plastic Surgery Center will collaborate with you to ensure your compression garment fits correctly. It should feel snug but never excessively tight. As swelling decreases, you may adjust to a smaller size, but only if needed. We can provide an exact timeline for wearing the garment during your consultations. We will also explain how to wear a compression garment based on your individual procedure, as well as how to keep it clean.

Do You Have Other Questions? Let Us Know

If you're interested in breast augmentation, a tummy tuck, or a breast augmentation and tummy tuck in Scottsdale, AZ or any of our procedures, the best way to learn more is to sit down and talk with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons. During your initial consultation, we'll listen to your goals and answer any questions in depth.

To arrange an appointment with board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Aldo Guerra or Dr. Scott Ogley, please complete this online contact form. They can offer personalized insight about what to expect before, during, and after plastic surgery, including the best way to wear a compression garment.