How Important is the Binder After Tummy Tuck?

The binder after tummy tuck serves several purposes, the most important one being support of the repairs made to your abdomen. After tummy tuck the muscle repair if indeed you had a diastasis or separation of the sit-up muscles will be much more comfortable if supported by a snug binder, and you will better be able to deep breath and cough if necessary. The binder also will help reduce swelling and reduce the collection of fluid within the surgery site called a seroma. Overall it will give... more

Some surgeons use binders religiously and others speak out against them. The binders are generally used to applied gentle pressure to the tissues to reduce swelling and bruising. But too much pressure can restrict blood flow and increase intra-abdominal pressure that reduce ventilation and may increase blood clots in the legs. Often, patients fell more secure with a binder on and thus it serves a psychological, not physiological, purpose. it can also be used to hold dressings in place in... more

Unless significant liposuction of the side walls and flanks have been done, binder is not critical. In fact, tight binders can be a source of trouble by placing unwanted pressure on the flap and causing tissue necrosis (death of tissue). 

The only one who knows what was done and how long you should wear your binder is your doctor. Call him --- you paid him for the surgery and follow up.