After Smart Lipo - Do I Workout with Garment on or Off?

In my preactice, I recommend the use of true first stage compression guarment only for the first 7-10 days, 23hrs/day  to limit third spacing of fluif into the newly created liposuction cavity or channels. Compression more than 28mmHG beyind 10 days may infact compromise the recovering lymphatics which are designed to remove the extravascular tissue fluid and return it to the vascular circulation which is ultimately excreted by the kidneys if in excess. I recommend a support guarment such as a second stage guarment, Spanx, or commercial atheletic compression shirts (Nike, Underarmour, etc) for the following 6-8 weeks round the clock. This is to support the skin in place as the treated area fluctuates in swelling and the skin proximity to the desired reattachment area thus fluctuates and the skin may heal in a sagging position if not supported. Also, a support guarment does not assure smooth skin texture after liposuction as skin contraction and smooth texture are not synonymous. You need good skin care and massaging two improve the skin texture after liposuction and especially good posture.

Lastly, I recommend to my patients that after the first 2 months post-liposuction, they wear a support guarment anytime they engage in a high impact activity. Your skin has its own weight similar to breast tissue and moves separately from the body and it sustaings high shearing forced with up and down movement such as jumping or running. Over time, if the tissue is not supported, it will tear and sagg.  Long-term appearance of skin texture will improve if supported and not sagging. I recommend that my patients make support or compression shirts/guarments a routine part of their lives.

You should discuss with yoru doctor how long he/she wants you to wear a garment after liposuction surgery. I prefer 3-6 weeks myself.