Purpose of Binder After Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck creates a large open space under the are of your abdomen that is undermined. Therefore, there is a tendency to have fluid accumulate into this space if it is not closed off. A binder, keeps this area under tension and allows healing to occur and lessens the chances of fluid buildup. Surgical drains are often used together with the binder to minimize a fluid build up (sermoma or hematoma). It is possible that your Doctor is using a tissue glue called Tisseal which can minimize the need for a binder in some patients. I still believe that the binder also gives support to the muscle layer that has been tightened at the time of the tummy tuck. For these reasons, in my hands, a binder works well for my patients. If your Doctor is able to obtain great results without fluid build up without the use of a binder, then I commend him/her.

When there are several opinions on a subject, it means there is no true answer! Binders can help early on with compressing and keeping the skin adherent to the abdominal wall. It can also assist in early ,light bleeding. Binders will not make the result better or worse if you wear it or do not wear it. Your result will not be different if you choose the surgeon who does not use them . many patients like the "comfort" that the binder affords them, so I use them for a week or two.

Thank you for your question regarding the purpose of using a binder after a tummy tuck. It's great to hear that you are well-informed and excited about your upcoming procedure.

A binder is commonly used after a tummy tuck to provide support and apply pressure to the abdominal area. This pressure helps to reduce the risk of fluid accumulation (such as seromas or hematomas) in the space created under the skin during the surgery. By keeping this area under tension, the binder aids in the healing process, helping the skin and underlying tissues to reattach and adapt to their new contours. Additionally, the binder supports the abdominal muscles that have been tightened and helps maintain the desired shape during the initial recovery phase.

While some surgeons may not use binders, believing that they do not significantly impact the outcome or comfort, many plastic surgeons find them beneficial for the reasons mentioned above. The use of binders can vary based on a surgeon’s experience and observations of how their patients recover. If your surgeon achieves excellent results without a binder and has a protocol to manage the risk of fluid buildup effectively, this approach might be appropriate for your case.

However, if you have concerns, it’s important to discuss them with your surgeon. Understanding their rationale and the specific measures they take to ensure a smooth recovery without a binder can provide reassurance and help you feel more comfortable with the procedure plan.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen