Are second stage garments after having liposuction necessary?

Question

can't i just wear my first stage garment the entire time i need compression? what makes the difference?

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I typically require my patients to wear compression garments for 4 - 6 weeks following. Patients report that switching to a slightly smaller second stage garment after 3 - 4 weeks is more comfortable. Spanx is also an option to transition to. Please follow your plastic surgeon's specific post -operative instructions. Hope this helps.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

as long as you have compression there is no need for step down, although it wouldn't hurt in my opinion.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

The initial compression garments worn after surgery have more intense compression and usually have zippers or hook and eye closures. The 2nd stage garments you refer to, are garments that are less bulky and can more easily be worn under clothing once you return to work or school etc. They are more desirable because they are thinner and more comfortable but still provide support while you heal. There are so many varieties to choose from. They are much less surgical than your first garments; they are more like body shapers.Some examples of these garments are Cupid, Spanx, and Shapewear to name a few. Hope this helps.

Steven Holzman, MD · Answer

I do not think 2nd stage garments are necessary.  It partially has to do with whether you think the prolonged use of garments helps your final result.  I recommend and think that wearing garments for about 4 weeks post op is good enough.  Having said that, patients often still want to wear something for support and so I recommend Spanx or some other garment that the patients often find online by themselves.  You can continue to use the 1st stage garment but most of my patients lose enough weight after surgery that the first garment never seems to be tight enough so they get a smaller size.  The main difference between 1st and 2nd stage garments are the zippers and the crotch.

Stacey Folk, MD · Answer

People often like to switch to second stage garments that don't have hooks and zipper because they are more comfortable and less bulky under their clothes. You need easy access with first stage because you are sore, but something like Spanx works well for the second stage. You can certainly keep using your first stage, but patients are usually more than happy to ditch them as soon as they are able.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I personally see no use and wearing second stage garments.I asked why patients to wear primary compression garments for two weeks and longer if they feel they are of use.Second stage garments will certainly not impact final results in anyway.I know of one national liposuction chain that tells everyone to get them saying the results will be enhanced.they do so for financial reasons.Leading people to believe they should wear second stage garments for six months after the procedure in order to get better results when they may find them uncomfortable especially in hot weather is in my opinion unethical.some people like wearing snug fitting clothes.I suggest stay with your primary garment and wear it as prescribed or longer if you like wearing it.There's certainly nothing wrong with wearing a second stage garment.Best, Mats Hagstrom M.D.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Discuss the garments with your surgeon.  The second stage garment is used more for comfort and ease of concealment under clothes.

Are second stage garments after having liposuction necessary?

Answers (7)

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