I'm 3 1/2 Weeks Post Op from a Tummy Tuck. When Can I Sleep Without my Binder?

Question

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello!  Thank you for your question!.  The tummy tuck procedure is an 
excellent method for contouring of your abdomen, often removing the 
excess skin as well as tightening the abdominal wall.  After nearly all 
surgical procedures, a potential space is created from where the 
surgical procedure/dissection was performed.  This is especially true 
for the tummy tuck, in where the abdominal flap is raised off of the 
abdominal wall and then redraped atop the area to contour the abdomen.  
The procedure alone promotes swelling and inflammation, which typically 
lasts for 6-12 weeks.  This may even last longer if liposuction has been
 performed in addition.  During this time, a few things may be done to 
allow adherence of the abdominal skin/soft tissue to readhere to the 
abdominal wall and close that space.  Many surgeons use drains to 
evacuate the expected serous fluid from building up.  Stagnant fluid as 
such may be a nidus for infection as well as does not allow the tissue 
to adhere back to its normal anatomic position.  Drains usually are 
removed once output is <30cc/day - usually removed within 3-4 weeks 
on average, sometimes longer.  When this occurs, a seroma may develop - 
which may require aspiration or surgical evacuation to rid this in order
 to optimize your result.  This is not an uncommon reason for 
persistent swelling and/or bulging in a certain area of your belly.  Of 
course, thwarting the development of a pseudobursa, or seroma capsule, 
is always best, to provide the best result as well as avoid any future 
procedures for this.  This may be a troubling consequence and often 
compromises your overall result.  Thus avoiding this complication, in 
whatever manner, is the objective.  "Drainless" tummy tucks are becoming
 more popular - basically, the overlying tissue is physically sutured to
 the abdominal wall to close the potential space.  In addition, most 
surgeons typically restrict vigorous activity/strenuous exercise as well
 as lifting restrictions of usually <20#, especially the core, for 
6-8 weeks to allow healing to continue.  Most also often recommend an 
abdominal compression-type binder or garment, which will serve to 
provide 
compression as well as assist to decrease swelling and eliminate the 
dead-space of the area for at least 6 weeks as well.  After the initial 
binder, many patients like the Spanx garments.   Most patients are 
able to return to most activities within a couple of weeks, provided 
they adhere to the restrictions.  Overall, this is a procedure 
with a high satisfaction rate.  Discuss the procedure and postoperative 
instructions/restrictions with your surgeon, as these will vary among 
surgeons.  Hope that this helps!  Best wishes!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

This question is best answered by your surgeon, as opinions will vary.  Typically we have patients wear their binders for at least 6 weeks for all but a few hours per day.  The binders serve to control swelling as well as support and shape the healing tissues.  The garment should feel snug, but not too tight.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	Every plastic surgeon has his/her own &ldquo;protocol&rdquo; that he/she believes will achieve the best results. It would be in your best interests ( and most respectful)  if you ask your plastic surgeon with his/her recommendations are.

	Best wishes.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

I generally recommend that patients sleep in the binder for about four weeks postop  Although I permit them to remove it during the daytime sooner, they report that it gives them support and guards against unconscious movement while asleep.

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

For most of my patients, 2 weeks with a binder is enough but you should check with your surgeon to be sure.

I'm 3 1/2 Weeks Post Op from a Tummy Tuck. When Can I Sleep Without my Binder?

Answers (7)

Answer: The binder is your friend

Answer: The binder is your friend

Answer: Sleep without Binder after Tummy Tuck

Answer: Sleep without Binder after Tummy Tuck

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I'm 3 1/2 Weeks Post Op from a Tummy Tuck. When Can I Sleep Without my Binder?

Answers (7)

Answer: The binder is your friend

Answer: The binder is your friend

Answer: Sleep without Binder after Tummy Tuck

Answer: Sleep without Binder after Tummy Tuck

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.