Liposuction Recovery Using Compression Garments or Spanx?

Gentle continuous pressure on the area treated is all that is necessary from a compression garment.  Spanx fill the bill and are a good alternative.

Using Spanx as a substitute for medical-grade compression garments during recovery from liposuction is generally not recommended. Medical compression garments are specifically designed to provide the necessary pressure and support needed for optimal healing after liposuction. They help reduce swelling, improve blood circulation, and support the newly contoured areas, which is essential for achieving the desired surgical outcome. Spanx, while offering some level of compression, might not provide the consistent and even pressure needed during the critical recovery phase. Always consult with your surgeon to ensure you are using the appropriate post-surgical garment for your recovery.

Dear tarann,

Thank you for your question about the use of compression garments, such as Spanx, versus traditional medical-grade compression garments during the recovery from liposuction. This is an important aspect of post-operative care that deserves attention for its role in facilitating a smooth and effective healing process.

Compression garments play a crucial role in the post-liposuction recovery phase. They help to reduce swelling, minimize bruising, support the treated areas, and encourage the skin to contract smoothly to your new body contours. Essentially, these garments are designed to provide consistent, even pressure which aids in the body's natural healing process and helps to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome.

Medical-grade compression garments are specifically engineered to deliver a range of compression that is optimal for post-surgical healing. They often have features such as variable compression zones to match the body's contours, moisture-wicking fabrics for comfort, and designs that accommodate post-surgical drains or other needs.

While Spanx or similar shapewear products might seem like a convenient and more accessible alternative, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Compression Level: Spanx and similar products are designed for aesthetic shaping rather than medical compression. They may not provide the appropriate level of compression needed for optimal post-liposuction healing.

Design and Fit: Medical-grade compression garments are designed to address the specific needs of surgical recovery, offering features that standard shapewear does not. It’s essential that the garment fits correctly to provide effective support without being overly restrictive, which could compromise circulation or healing.

Physician’s Recommendation: Following your plastic surgeon's advice is paramount. They will recommend a garment that best suits the specifics of your procedure, the areas treated, and your individual healing process.

In conclusion, while the appeal of using familiar shapewear products like Spanx during your recovery is understandable, it's crucial to follow your surgeon's recommendations for post-operative care. Discussing your options with your surgeon will ensure you have the right support for your recovery journey, leading to the best possible outcome.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon

Thank you for your question. It is advised that a compression garment be worn for 6 weeks after surgery. I would advise you to schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon for a detailed examination.

Thanks for your question. I  have my liposuction patients wear a compression garment (faja) covering all treated 24/7 except to shower for 4 weeks post op.  This helps ontrol swelling as the compression on your tissues helps your body to reabsorb the edema fluid that accumulates in the tissues after any procedure. This can take quite some time to happen without help from the compression garments.  It also helps improve  contour.  Compression helps to keep the tissues adherent to the underlying structures while healing, this can help prevent the wrinkled skin appearance that can happen when the tissues heal in ways we don't want them to.

Hi, circumferential pressure (garment) is usually
recommended for 4-6 weeks to aid with results and healing. But yes, some change to exercise garment such as Lycra or Spandex beyond that time
frame. It varies between patients and will depend on you and your doctor's preference with consideration to your comfort and current needs. It is best to consult your plastic
surgeon regarding your aftercare that best fit your case. Best of
luck!#RealSelf100

You should likely follow your surgeon's recommendation for your post-op regimen following liposuction. Surgical compression garments are designed with specific areas of compression in mind, depending on your procedure and garment.  Additionally, the amount of compression applied by the garment is specifically regulated and targeted to optimizing your post-op recovery.  Spanx or another similar product may offer an inappropriate level of compression, in a potentially inappropriate place.

I think Spanx can be excellent post-operative compression garments for some patients.  A lot will depend upon where you had the liposuction and how much compression is required to make you comfortable.  The bottom line is that if you are comfortable in Spanx after liposuction, they are probably providing adequate compression.

I do believe that for almost all patients after liposuction surgery they should wear proper compression garments. Especially within the first few days after surgery when they are prone to bleeding which can cause increased bruising. My strong preference is that patients wear standard compression garments for the proper amount of time. With that said, I have had patients that have found wearing compression garments are just too uncomfortable. I will allow some patients to switch to something like Spanx after the first 48 hours, if it will not have a long term effect on their results. Generally, my answer is no when compression garments are required for the best chance at having your best outcome possible.

Hi. First off, I would go with the advice of your treating surgeon. Spanx are actually a form of compression garment, just different than the typical immediate postsurgical garment. In many cases I may have that patient use a postsurgical garment with clips and zippers for the first few weeks after a body contouring procedure because it makes it easier to get on and off. After that point I may have them transition to a spanx type of compression garment that is a bit more form fitting and sleek, if you will, such that it is easier to wear under their regular clothing. I hope that helps.Good luck and take care, Dr. Howell

This is a wonderful and very common question! I provide two compression garments in each post-operative kit for each of my patients. I encourage them to wear the garment day and night only removing to shower for the first two weeks followed by 12 hours a day for the next two weeks. Compression is utilized following liposuction to help control swelling and provide comfort and support during recovery. I have had many patients question if they are able to utilize spanx as well which I am always happy to say yes. The most important aspect of your garment is to make sure you are achieving compression without being uncomfortable. It is possible for your garment to be too restrictive. If you question the fit of your garment I would suggest you contact your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for a quick office visit to make sure your garment is the correct size. I hope you have found this information helpful and I wish you luck!