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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.