After liposuction - compression garments or Spanx?

Can I use Spanx instead regular compression garments after liposuction?

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11 answers to “After liposuction - compression...”

A: Compression garments after liposuction

Michael Law, MD

I prefer compression garments. But, not all compression garments are the same. I research to find what I believe to be the most effective and comfortable compression garments for each procedure. Compression garments are not comfortable, but most of my patients report that they enjoy taling the compression... more

A: Just What the Doctor Ordered

Athleo Louis Cambre, MD

I always recommend compression garments for my patients after Liposuction.  Typically, I supply two sets of garments, so that the patient will always have one clean garment to change into each day, and I recommend that they are worn continuously, 24/7, for the first three weeks, except to shower.  I... more

A: Spanx are fine.

George J. Beraka, MD

To Tarann, For most liposuction patients, I stopped using  regular compression garments several years ago. They are uncomfortable, cumbersome, and they don't improve the final result.  If you wear a compression garment, you will look better one week after liposuction, but after three weeks, patients... more

A: I like tight compression. Docs vary on this however.

John P. Di Saia, MD

Hello,   What you will find is that docs vary on the issue. I like tight compression believing that it tends to mold the remaining fat nicely. It also tends to limit the swelling somewhat. Spanx are more comfortable but do not compress as much.     Best Regards,   John Di Saia MD

A: I recommend Spanx for the "second stage."

Sutton Graham II, MD

Prior to liposuction surgery we have patients purchase a retail garment such as Spanx.  They keep that at home to be used later.  When they have surgery, we provide the initial postop "medical" compression garment.  After using it for the first 2-3 weeks, we recommend they switch and... more

A: Good Post-Lipo Compression Garment is a MUST!

S. Sean Younai, MD

Take it from a plastic surgeon who has done more than 1000 liposuctions. A good Post-liposuction Compression Garment is a must! this is because it helps to Reduce excessive swelling Reduces incidence of seroma or fluid collection. Give abdominal and support for posture. Reduces bruising. I found spandexes to... more

A: Either one is fine

Sirish Maddali, MD

I usually prescribe compression garments but some of my patients use Spanx. I feel that the results are similar in both cases. Furthermore, the garment should be able to extend above and below the liposuction site. When I do localized liposuction (one or two areas), I will always recommend a garment. However... more

A: Why not both

Robert M. Freund, MD

I use the compression garments for my patients, but do not like how the rigid elements of the garment bunch up when the patient move into different positions. I find that wearing a pear of spanks underneath the garment make for a more comfortable and fitting compression garment.

A: Either One

David Shafer, MD

Tarann, Both compression garments and Spanx are good for post-liposuction compression. It goal is to have compression over the areas which were treated. So, it really depends on which garment or Spanx garment does the job. The Spanx tend to be a bit less expensive and more comfortable. However, you should... more

A: Compression garment better

Steven Wallach, MD

I think compression garments are better than spanx. Spanx aren't made the same way and will not provide the same compression as the garments that are designed for post-liposuction care.

More answers to After liposuction - compression garments or Spanx?
Englewood - For best results, use the compression garments your physician...

Comments

glory_lopez
2 posts
3 Dec 2008

I had a tummy tuck 2 months ago and i have to wear some sort of girdle for 4 months so my body takes a nice shape with it.

aliu
109 posts
4 Dec 2008

Excellent question you asked about compression garments.  Modern techniques of fat removal maximize results by the amount of compression the treated area receives post-op.  Since the fat layer has been removed in between the skin layer and the underlying muscle, you do not want a lot of "chafing" between those two tissue layers.  Compression not only helps drain out more fluid and fat but also provides pressure to decrease additional bleeding and reduce swelling.  Proper compression will allow maximimum healing for the best results (bimodal compression).  The goal of compression is not to constrict you to the point where you feel you are running out of breath but rather to provide the treated area with support and firm (not uncomfortable) pressure.  Spanx (provided they are tight enough) can provide enough support during the post-op recovery period.  Just make sure with your surgeon that your Spanx will provide the compression he/she feels is adequate.  Best of luck! Alex Liu, MD

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