Do You Have to Have the Compression Garment After Tummy Tuck?

Question

I had a tummy tuck about 2 weeks ago my Dr. did not suggest a compression garment will not having one ruin my results or will it just make healing longer?

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

I HIGHLY recommend wearing a garment. Think of a sweater that is too tight and the seams begin to unravel. This is what can happen with your abdomen if you do not wear a garment. The swelling cased by the surgery could cause you to pop or loosen a suture. A great company for garments is Design Veronique. They have a fantastic website that can assist you in finding the perfect garment for you. Good Luck!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about whether a compression garment is necessary after a tummy tuck. Compression garments are typically recommended after surgery to help support the healing process, but every surgeon has a different protocol based on their surgical technique and the patient’s needs.

In general, wearing a compression garment after a tummy tuck is highly beneficial because it helps:

Reduce swelling: Compression helps control post-operative swelling by limiting fluid buildup under the skin, which can speed up healing.
Support the tissues: After a tummy tuck, the abdominal muscles and skin are healing, and the garment provides gentle support to prevent excessive movement that could cause discomfort or disrupt the sutures.
Improve contouring: A compression garment can help ensure the skin and tissues settle smoothly and adhere to the new contour of your body, leading to more refined results.
However, if your surgeon did not recommend a compression garment, it’s important to follow their specific post-operative instructions. Not wearing a garment won’t ruin your results, but it may mean that your healing process takes a bit longer or you might experience more swelling than if you had worn one.

I suggest discussing this with your plastic surgeon at your next follow-up appointment. Every patient’s recovery is different, and they’ll be able to provide personalized guidance based on how you’re healing.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

I always suggest my patients wear a compression garment. This is because it helps ease the swelling, it supports the tightening of your muscles, and allows your skin to better conform to your sleeker contours. However, if your surgeon did not advise you wear one please follow his or her advice.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Many surgeons do not recommend a compression garment after a tummy tuck.  Each surgeon is different regarding their post-op philosophy.

John P. Di Saia, MD · Answer

Hello,
Your question helps emphasize the fact that when a patient goes to a plastic surgeon, she is treated to a philosophy as to how something should be done. Doctors differ in these opinions as our practice's have different philosophies. This is one of the reasons that one doctor's results differ from those of anothers.
I emphasize garments in my practice after tummy tuck surgery. I see the proper garment helping "mold" the result.

Do You Have to Have the Compression Garment After Tummy Tuck?

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Do You Have to Have the Compression Garment After Tummy Tuck?

Answers (6)

Answer: Compression garment after a tummy tuck

Answer: Compression garment after a tummy tuck

Answer: Professional Opinion

Answer: Professional Opinion

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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.