I had fat grafting to my thigh, and it’s pretty swollen. Can I wear a compression stocking or will that kill the fat?

Thank you for your question regarding compression stockings after fat grafting to the thigh. After fat grafting, it’s normal to experience swelling in the treated areas. Compression garments are typically used after surgery to help reduce swelling and improve comfort—but with fat grafting, the situation is a little different. Compression applied too tightly can compromise the newly transferred fat cells, especially within the first 2 to 4 weeks when the fat is trying to establish a new blood supply. That said, light compression is often acceptable and can be beneficial, but it must not be overly tight or constricting. If you’re going to wear a compression stocking, make sure it’s loose enough to allow for blood flow and not press too hard against the grafted area. It’s always best to follow your plastic surgeon’s specific instructions, as they know the details of your procedure and how much fat was grafted.

Good luck. I hope I’ve answered your question regarding compression stockings after thigh fat grafting. If you have any additional questions about fat grafting, body contouring, or plastic surgery after weight loss, please consult with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who regularly performs these procedures. Be sure to check their reviews and before-and-after photos on RealSelf to ensure they have the experience and results you’re looking for.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen
(President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Thank you for submitting you concern.Based on the information you have provided it all depends on several factors, starting out with, when you surgery date was? How have you healed? I would suggest you contact your plastic surgeon for his orders. Best of luck. 

Thanks for your question.You are correct to be cautious with wearing compressive garments after fat transfers. It ultimately boils down to timing. Early after the procedure the transferred fat is very delicate and susceptible to ischemia and death if put under significant pressure. With time, the tissue reestablishes its blood supply and becomes more hearty. There is no complete consensus in the field of plastic surgery when it comes to the exact timing of this. In my practice I do not recommend utilizing compression clothing for the first 3 to 4 weeks after a fat transfer.  Best wishes.