Can indents from a corset style binder do permanent damage to a tummy tuck?

Question

I am 12 days post-op. My doctor recommended I get a girdle to replace the binder that was given to me by the hospital as it was stained. The one i bought was the only thing I could find in what I thought was my size and was a half body suit with corset pins on the top half of it (the very top ends below the ribs). I took it off and noticed it had left indents just above my incision line and as its the weekend I am freaking out whether or not they will go away.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

I do not use garments after tummy tuck for at least a month and then if they leave indentations the are forbidden, for the exact reason you are asking.  You know the right answer!

Jeffrey Rockmore, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  While it is hard to tell the extent without photos or an actual exam, I suspect that the indentations would be temporary.  If you are concerned I would contact your plastic surgeon and be evaluated.Best of luck with your stomach.Jeff Rockmore

Andrea Marando, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Unfortunately, without photos it is difficult to comment on the degree of indentation you mention. However, as general rule, it is very unlikely that a binder might be responsible for permanent damage if you have been wearing it for less than 3 to 5 days, unless unhealthily tight.I would wash and dry the binder you had been given at the hospital and replace ASAP the one you are wearing. To put also your mind at rest, contact the office of your surgeon to ask his/her advice.All the bestAndrea MarandoPlastic and Cosmetic SurgeonManchester and London

Kirsty Boyd, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It is very unlikely that your garment will cause permanent damage to your tummy tuck.Typically we ask patients to wear a garment to help reduce swelling, prevent fluid collection (hematoma/seroma), and improve contour.  The garment should be something that is reasonably comfortable, but is snug-fitting and spans the entire surgical area.  If your garment is not fitting appropriately, is fitting too tightly, or has prominent seams or pins, then you may have issues with marks or indentations from the garment.  These will very likely reverse with time after removing the garment.I would suggest switching to a slightly looser, more comfortable garment that still provides support but doesn't cause indentations.  Sometimes a spanx, control top panty, or fitted bicycle short can achieve the same compression without causing pain or marks.  Good luck.

Can indents from a corset style binder do permanent damage to a tummy tuck?

Answers (4)

Answer: Dents left by garments following a tummy tuck

Answer: Dents left by garments following a tummy tuck

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Can indents from a corset style binder do permanent damage to a tummy tuck?

Answers (4)

Answer: Dents left by garments following a tummy tuck

Answer: Dents left by garments following a 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.