How long after a tummy tuck do you have to wear the compression garment?

Question

For how long after you have surgery do you have to wear a compression garment/faja after having a tummy tuck?

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! For my patients having a tummy tuck procedure, I recommend they wear their compression garments for the first 3 weeks post surgery, 24/7, then an additional 3 weeks at night only. I recommend discussing specific post op instructions with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck!

Isabel Balza, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question,
Swelling is very common in tummy tuck procedure, usually more frequently in the lower abdominal area. Usually, the swelling goes down after 6 months but the final result is after one year after surgery. The compression garment is very important after tummy tuck and helps to reduce the swelling, I like to recommend for at least 6 weeks some patients prefer to wear the binder longer.  Also,  liposuction after a year reduces the bulky area under the navel. Please make sure to contact a Board Certifies Plastic Surgeon. Good luck :)

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Using compression garments after surgery can help to manage swelling and give support to healing tissues.  I advise my patients to wear compression for three to four weeks.  This can vary by patient circumstance as well as surgeon preference, so it is best to check with your surgeon.

Andrew Jimerson, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question,I suggest usually between 6 weeks and 6 months of wearing your compression garment. Everyone’s body is different so it varies from person to person. A lot of my patients like to wear it much longer than what they have to. It might seem like a hassle, but it seems as though most patients find it more comfortable and they get better results.Best Wishes

Lina Triana, MD · Answer

After a tummy tuck it is important to wear a tight garment for the first 4 weeks to prevent liquid accumulation and decrease swelling, and for a couple of weeks more to eight weeks post surgery, to promote correct healing and keep abdominal muscles that have been suture back in the mid line together while a good scar is formed.

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.
  Best wishes.

Rick Rosen, MD · Answer

Each surgeon has their preferences, but generally I recommend one for 4-6 weeks after the procedure. It helps support the repair and make sure the fat sticks down to the muscle layer. I would follow your surgeons advice.

J. Michael Morrissey, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Thanks for the question and congratulations on your tummy tuck. Each surgeon has their own way to care for a patient after a tummy tuck. This tells you that there is no ONE correct way. Each surgeon feels that his or her way is the BEST way. That's just how we roll. I think most surgeons would agree that the compression garment should be worn between four and six weeks post operatively. This provides compression to encourage adhernece of the skin flap to the muscle beneath and helps squeeze out edema fluid.  Some people like the feel of the garment and wish to wear it longer, and thats ok too. Some folks like to wear it under their clothes as a slimmer and it is seemless so there are no lines showing through clothes. Check with your doc to see what they recommend and stick with their program.Best wishes,Dr. Morrissey

How long after a tummy tuck do you have to wear the compression garment?

Answers (8)

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