Can the fit of a compression garment (if a bit too tight), ruin the results of my tummy tuck, if worn long term? (Photos)

Question

This refers to a second compression garment I will wear about once a week, for the next five weeks. I plan to wear it all day, when I wash my original garment. It is a bit tight and not as smooth a fit as my original post op garment, on my tummy tuck area and torso. This is a back up compression garment that I will only wear about one day a week for the next five weeks, when I wash my original compression garment (which I love, and is by a different brandmaker than the back up garment).

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

I have never seen a garment “ruin” a tummy tuck result. These devices basically compress the fluid only out of the tissues. Avoid “shaping” garments as these can lead to contour problems. Garments should be tight but functional! Good luck. Dr. Aldo

Tyler Angelos, MD, FACS · Answer

Each surgeon differs in their opinions regarding compression garments after a tummy tuck and/or liposuction. If the garment is too tight it can actually cut off blood flow to part of the skin causing major problems. Your plastic surgeon can guide you as to the appropriate amount of "tightness" that is safe with your garment. Best wishes.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Your plastic surgeon will guide you when it comes to specific postoperative instructions.
I ask my patients to where the abdominal wall binder for one month after surgery;  most patients are eager to “burn” the garment  as soon as possible.  Some patients however prefer to keep  some form of compression garment on for a longer period of time, stating that the garment gives them  a feeling of “security”.  The use of compression garments such as "spanx" may be helpful thereafter.To answer your question specifically:  it is possible for post op garments to be too tight.   A garment that is too tight may be problematic in that patients may have numbness in the surgical sites (and may not know that the garment is too tight).   Also, surgical sites (just by the nature of the operation performed) will have diminished blood and lymphatic flow for a period of time; a garment that is too tight may compromise this flow and cause issues with incision line healing, localized swelling or and/or tissue survival... Again, best to "clear"  these types of concerns with your plastic surgeon. Best wishes.

Anthony P. Terrasse, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. This is something you should discuss with your surgeon. A tighter garment may not affect your results visually, but if the blood supply is cut off from a too-tight garment, it can affect your healing. Your surgeon can answer your question and give you recommendations on what to wear when your original garment is in the wash. Good luck!

Lissa Bootstaylor, MD · Answer

Hi I just wanted to take a moment to respond to your inquiry! 
The type of compression garment used during the post op period is important. Too much compression at a given point can stop blood flow and cause tissue death. You also want to ensure the compression is uniform so there is not too much pressure in any one site. 
After surgery, compression is very important. It prevents fluid leakage from the tissues, and once it occurs, the pressure forces it back into whatever drainage channels are available (drains or lymphatics). Tissues heal better and faster when there is minimal swelling.
I recommend finding a second garment that is not too tight or too loose, it is essential to your healing to find a garment with the right fit. 
I hope that you found this answer helpful. Good Luck on your recovery!

Can the fit of a compression garment (if a bit too tight), ruin the results of my tummy tuck, if worn long term? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Fit of compression garment

Answer: Fit of compression garment

Answer: Compression Garment tightness

Answer: Compression Garment tightness

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Can the fit of a compression garment (if a bit too tight), ruin the results of my tummy tuck, if worn long term? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Fit of compression garment

Answer: Fit of compression garment

Answer: Compression Garment tightness

Answer: Compression Garment tightness

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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.