Is a compression garment needed after a drainless tummy tuck? Is 7 hours normal for mommy makeover?

Question

I am getting a mommy makeover... Drainless tummy tuck, transaxillary augmentation, and inner thigh lipo. I have done a lot of research and I read a lot about compression garments. My Dr doesn't recommend wearing them with the drainless tummy tuck during the first two weeks. Thoughts? I haven't read this anywhere else. Also, the surgery time is going to be 7 hours. Is this too long? I am healthy with no underlying issues... no smoking etc. PS is board certified.

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

I put my patients in compression after tummy tucks. I would especially recommend it with the inner thigh lipo. 7 hours is a reasonable amount of time for that combination of surgery so long as you are very healthy.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear ScOhara,
every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The PS you have selected to perform your MM should provide you with post operative instructions, one of which will be the type of compression garment and length of wear.Our office provides our MM patients with an adjustable compression garment manufactured by Clear Point. 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. A compression garment may be used to control swelling in the abdomen, waist and buttocks.

Richard A. Bartlett, MD · Answer

Dear ScOhara, 
Thank you for your question. I place all of my patients in an abdominal compression garment following an abdominoplasty to help with swelling. The duration of your surgery does not seem to be too long. I would recommend addressing your concerns with you Board Certified Operating Surgeon, as each surgeon has his or her own specific recommendations. Best of luck to you.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

I appreciate your concerns. Elastic garments help reduce swelling faster after tummy tuck and liposuction surgery, and I personally think it is an important adjunct even after drainless tummy tuck operation. And since you are having liposuction of your thighs, another important aid to help decrease swelling. The usual recommendation is a maximum of six hours for outpatient elective cosmetic surgery. All things considered, you may consider getting a second opinion from a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area. Good luck.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  I typically place all my patients in a compression garment after surgery but I would ask your directly for the rationale of not using one.  As for time, if you are otherwise healthy this should be an appropriate amount of time.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Opinions will vary by surgeon with regard to wearing compression.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon so that you can better understand his/her rationale of not wearing one for the first two weeks post op.  As for the time for a Mommy Makeover, it depends on the procedures being performed.  A typical Mommy Makeover is usually around 6 hours depending on the patient and procedures involved.

Erika Sato, MD, FACS · Answer

7h is the upper limit of OR/anesthesia time recommended for elective cases. Our goal is always to keep it under 7h. I do a lot of liposuction/lipocontouring with my tummy tucks, so I always have my patients wear a faja or compression garment after a TT, even a drainless one.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Dear ScOhara,
Seven hours a bit high, but acceptable for a liposuction, abdominoplasty and breast augmentation procedure...my OR times are 4.5-5.5 hours.  Every surgeon is different and I am sure there others much faster than myself.
While not a fan of drainless abdominoplasties, the use of compression garments post abdominoplasty in NYC is a standard.  Every plastic surgeon has their own technique of operating and postoperative instructions, so there is no right or wrong answer.  You must trust your surgeon if you are allowing them to perform procedures on you.
Best wishes with your procedures.
Dr. T

Is a compression garment needed after a drainless tummy tuck? Is 7 hours normal for mommy makeover?

Answers (9)

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