Have I ruined my liposuction by not wearing a compression garment?

Question

I had liposuction of the abdomen/flanks 6 days ago and started with Spanx (knee to bust). Pain extreme and I removed them. Applied MD garment - caused pain and bruising. Have not been wearing a garment most days. My surgeon had told me that research has proven that wearing a garment does not actually change the results of surgery and it is okay to leave it off if too painful. However, I am in as much pain as Day 1. I am worried I have ruined my surgery.

Alex Campbell, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Swelling in the first week after liposuction is quite common. It's best to follow your surgeons specific advice post-operatively. We typically have our patients wear compression garments on the areas we did liposuction to help the skin and underlying tissues re-adhere as well as reduce swelling. However, if you garments are too tight they can restrict lymphatic drainage and blood flow leading to more swelling and complications. I'd highly suggest you contact your surgeon's office regarding your plan. Best of luck!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Garments are ESSENTIAL.  This doctor likely doesn't do aggressive hi definition approaches.  Without proper compression, diet, massage and RF treatments the results cannot be guaranteed.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Vaishali B. Doolabh, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Essexgirl63.  It is unusual to have such continued significant pain that you can't tolerate a garment.  If too tight, with the increase in swelling that normally occurs during the first week, I will provide a second larger garment so that patients can wear something.  A combination of ice packs, limiting activities, anti-inflammatories/pain meds, is usually enough.  It is important to be checked in person for a fluid collection, questionable skin viability etc to rule out causes of limiting pain. Best wishes,

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I always provide patients with a garment and want them to wear it in most cases for the first four weeks at least.  I would email or call your surgeon for advice.

Chester K. Cheng, MD · Answer

Good question. Post-op compression garments can help maximize skin retraction. People with good skin elasticity can have great results with or without the garments but those who have poor skin elasticity really benefit from the garments. Bottom line, it is a good idea to wear your garments.

Have I ruined my liposuction by not wearing a compression garment?

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Answer: Have I ruined my liposuction by not wearing a compression garment?

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Have I ruined my liposuction by not wearing a compression garment?

Answers (5)

Answer: Have I ruined my liposuction by not wearing a compression garment?

Answer: Have I ruined my liposuction by not wearing a compression garment?

Answer: Compression garments after liposuction

Answer: Compression garments after liposuction

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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