Too much compression ruin my TT?

Question

I’m Day 19 Postop - was told by PS that I could double up on compression. I wore a Spanx type garment with binder over it. It wasn’t uncomfortable and I could breathe just fine. I never felt like it was too much. I wore it for six hours then removed them for a shower. Immediately I noticed tons of swelling on incision line and pubic area, which have not occurred prior to this. I actually haven’t had much swelling until this. The incision line is also hard now. Did I mess something up?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Every surgeon prefers a certain type of compression garment, and I always support following your surgeon's post-operative guidelines as he/she knows the extent of your surgery and how well you are recovering.   Our office provides our TT/lipo patients with an adjustable compression garment with multiple bands so the garment can be tightened and loosened as swelling changes.   This provides differential compression. The  patients like the support it provides to the back and to the abdomen.  The only complaint I have heard is related to the "itchiness" of the fabric which can be remedied by wearing a soft t-shirt under the garment.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Compression is used to manage swelling and support tissues as they heal.  Garments should feel supportive but not restrictive.  Without photos or an exam it is difficult to determine if yours were fitting correctly.  Swelling is still expected even with the use of compression.

Nikesh K. Patel, MD · Answer

Hello and thanks for your question. Compression is an essential part of the tummy tuck recovery process and helps minimize swelling while you heal. So long as you do not experience discomfort or have difficulty breathing while wearing your compression garment, you should be safe to continue using it. Be sure to discuss these concerns with your plastic surgeon, however, to ensure you are applying your compression garment properly. Hope this helps!

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

Your garment should feel snug, but not tight. Have your surgeon check to make sure you have your garment adjusted correctly. Swelling is normal and you will have swelling for several more months. Good luck.

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Each surgeon will have their own protocol on which they would like their patients to follow.  You are in the early stages of recovery and swelling is normal.  I would suggest to make sure your binder is sitting appropriately.  I would also suggest following up with you PS and following their instructions.  Best of luck to you.

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Too much compression ruin my TT?

Answers (9)

Answer: Too Much Compression?

Answer: Too Much Compression?

Answer: Tummy tuck swelling

Answer: Tummy tuck swelling

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.