Chances of Bad Results from Not Wearing Chin Strap After Chin Liposuction?

Back in the day, I had all my neck liposuction patients wear chin straps for 2 weeks.  Several of  my patients came in and told me that they really hated the chin strap and they quit wearing it after the first day.  I noted that those who wore the chin strap and those who didn't had exactly the same results.  Obviously, compression has its merits, but these straps are claustrophobic and uncomfortable, and just don't look good in church. 

Each plastic surgeon has his or her own technique.  Talk to your plastic surgeon as to what they believe in and what they recommend.  In  my practice, we use DMSO on the neck or any liposuctioned area for about 1 week.  It's the world's best anti-inflammatory and it brings blood supply to the area, therefore decreasing swelling and bruising.  I also do ultrasound treatments (the kind the physical therapist uses for sore muscles), 8 sessions, about 5 minutes per session, and the patients look and feel great before the first month is up. 

Wearing the compressive garment is very important.  It helps minimize swelling and fluid collections.  Most importantly it keeps the skin against the newly contoured area to retain the desired result.  If you are having pain with the strap discuss it with your surgeon and maybe a different strap or different size can be used.  Additionally, the use of alternate pain meds and/or muscle relaxants can be prescribed.  Check with your surgeon.

I would discuss this with your surgeon who is best equipped to discuss the options or alternatives for you. Certain procedures performed on the neck warrant the use of a chin strap. Probably the most important time to wear this is for the first 24-hrs.