2 weeks after Lipo, is my compression garment making my swelling worse? Should I switch to a different one? (photos)

Question

My compression garment is similar to a postpartum belt, with a layer of foam underneath. It seems like this pushes all of the swelling to my lower abdomen and flanks and looks like I had nothing. I know it isn't fat bc I had pictures taken the next day and I had the procedure 10/21 so I haven't had the time to make that much fat. My lower abdomen feels firm but can be pressed flat. Would it be okay or helpful to switch to a different garment, maybe something more like spanx or a waist trainer?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I would follow up with your Dr. about your compression garment to see if they offer alternatives. I also recommend adding RF treatments externally like venus legacy, exilis ultra, Vanquish, shock/vibration therapy like Cellutone/z wave, hyperbaric oxygen and compression in order to decrease swelling and improve results. Best, Dr. Emer

Bernabe Vazquez, MD · Answer

Swelling 2 weeks after lipo is not only common, it is to be expected. There are a number of things that a patient can do however to decrease swelling. Patience is important as this is a process that can not wished away however time should be used correctly. Compression garments are the mainstay and the standard of care after lipo. I personally advise my patients to wear them for at least 6 weeks after surgery and to make sure that as the swelling goes down and the patient starts shrinking that newer smaller garments be worn to maintain the compression. A loose garment is not very helpful. Also patients should be VERY careful to only wear medical grade garments manufactured by the leading brands recommended by their surgeon. On-line purchases of lower quality garments made of very stiff material particularly during the first 4-6 weeks can produce disastrous results! Secondarily, lymphatic massage or drainage is extremely helpful and can and should be started within a few days after the procedure. Just  like with the garments, not all things are equal ad it is VERY important again to find a massage person who is qualified to do this type of treatment. Your neighborhood Medispa may not be the place and you may have to travel to find the right person. Other than the above and avoiding a salty diet, as mentioned; patience is necessary. after lipo. Expect to wait 3 months to see your final result.

Disnalda Matos, MD · Answer

Thanks you for the question

Definitely you need to see your Surgeon and talk about the options you have about change to another Garment.

Regards....

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

These are all questions you should bring up with your doctor.

I suggest setting up an in person follow-up visit.

It's certainly possible to gain a substantial amount no wait even within a few days.

If you're eating more than normal then you may be getting weight.

Arias outside of where the pressure of garment is having contact may appear enlarged wall where the garment.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom M.D.

Lawrence Bundrick, MD (retired) · Answer

As long as you are wearing some type of compression garment that covers the treated area, and is ok'd by your surgeon then it should be fine. Swelling post liposuction is inevitable and will last 6 months to a year to be completely resolved. It is normal to feel a little lumpy and firm. Talk to your surgeon about methods of speeding up this such as massage or radio frequency treatments. You are just going to have to be patient with your body as it recovers. Keep in mind that you need to be active and moving around, but do not be surprised if you are more swollen at the end of the day then you are in the morning when you first get up. It is just gravity.

2 weeks after Lipo, is my compression garment making my swelling worse? Should I switch to a different one? (photos)

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