Liposuction - What Type of Clothing Should I Wear Post-op?

Question

I am scheduled to have a facelift in October along with lipo to uppper/lower abs, bra roll and hips.  I plan to take off work for 2 weeks.  My question is this, as I prepare for going back to work, will I need clothing that is loose fitting, i.e. larger than what I normally wear due to swelling/compression garments?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Yes, you should wear clothing that is looser to allow for the compression garment and swelling. However, it is difficult to say how many sizes up they should be since the rate of swelling varies. Some patients find that their pre-surgery clothing fits fine, while others need to go a few sizes up as swelling subsides.Because you are getting a facelift, I recommend you choose clothing that doesn't have to go over your head. They should all be button up shirts.In addition, please make sure that your surgery is performed by a board certified, experienced plastic surgeon, especially since a simultaneous facelift and liposuction procedure can be quite lengthy. All the best.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear celkins,

As you’re gearing up for your facelift and liposuction on various areas, planning for your post-op wardrobe is indeed a wise and practical step. Yes, your intuition about opting for loose-fitting clothing is spot-on, especially considering the swelling and the necessity of wearing compression garments during your recovery.

Why Loose-Fitting Clothing Is Essential:

Swelling: After liposuction, swelling is a natural part of the healing process. Your body will need some time to adjust and recover, which can cause the treated areas to temporarily increase in size.

Compression Garments: These are crucial for your recovery as they help reduce swelling, provide support, and assist in the retraction of your skin to its new contours. Given their bulk and your need for comfort, wearing clothes that can accommodate these garments without causing restriction or discomfort is important.

Clothing Recommendations:

Elastic Waistbands and Stretchy Fabrics: Clothes with elastic waistbands, drawstrings, or made from stretchy, forgiving fabrics can offer comfort and flexibility as your body heals.

Layers: Considering you’re having procedures done on both your face and body, you might find that layering can help manage temperature fluctuations and also discreetly accommodate compression garments.

Easy to Wear and Remove: Opt for clothing that’s easy to put on and take off. Post-surgery, your mobility might be temporarily limited, so avoiding tight-fitting tops or clothes that require a lot of maneuvering can make your life easier.

Size Up: Purchasing a few key pieces one size larger than your normal size can offer additional comfort during your recovery period. This is especially useful for work attire when you return to your job.

Comfort Above All: Your comfort should be the priority. Soft, breathable fabrics can help keep you comfortable and promote a more pleasant healing process.

Taking two weeks off work is a sensible plan, giving you some time to start the recovery process. However, everyone heals differently, so listen to your body and communicate with your  plastic surgeon about your progress and any concerns you might have regarding returning to work and your daily activities.

Preparing your wardrobe for post-op recovery can significantly contribute to a more comfortable and stress-free healing journey. Best of luck with your upcoming procedures, and here’s to a smooth recovery and fabulous results.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Most surgeons have their patients wear a light compression garment after liposuction.  It should be worn as much as possible for about 6 weeks in my opinion.

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

As long as you wear your compression garments, you can probably wear anything after liposuction. Just make sure that the clothes you put on over the compression garments aren't too tight. Loose fitting is probably the best as it will most likely be the most comfortable over your tight compression garments.

Sanjay Grover, MD, FACS · Answer

A full facelift and total body liposuction can take quite a bit of time if done thoroughly.  You may wish to break this up into two procedures.
When you have liposuction, you generally will wear something baggier, like sweats for the first few days as you will be wearing garments and may have some additional foam padding underneath.

Garrett Jones, DO · Answer

After liposuction surgery, it's essential to wear comfortable clothing that will support your recovery process and minimize discomfort. Here are some general guidelines on the types of clothing you may want to wear post-op:1. Loose-Fitting Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting clothing that won't put pressure on the treated areas. This will help reduce swelling and discomfort and allow for better circulation.2. Compression Garments: Your plastic surgeon will likely provide you with compression garments to wear after liposuction surgery. These garments help reduce swelling, promote healing, and support the treated areas. Follow your plastic surgeon's instructions on how long to wear these garments and when you can remove them.3. Front-Closing Clothing: Choose clothing with front closures, such as button-up shirts or zip-up jackets, to avoid pulling clothing over your head or torso, which could irritate the treated areas.4. Soft Fabrics: Select clothing made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or modal to minimize irritation to the skin and allow for better airflow.5. Elastic-Waist Pants or Skirts: Elastic-waist pants or skirts can be more comfortable to wear during the early stages of recovery when you may experience swelling and tenderness in the abdominal or lower body areas.6. Comfortable Underwear: Choose comfortable, supportive underwear that won't rub against or compress the treated areas. Avoid tight-fitting underwear that could cause discomfort or interfere with healing.7. Avoid Tight Clothing: Steer clear of tight-fitting clothing, such as skinny jeans or leggings, as they can restrict blood flow and exacerbate swelling and discomfort.Always follow your plastic surgeon's specific post-operative instructions regarding clothing and garment wear after liposuction surgery. They will provide guidance based on your individual procedure and recovery needs to ensure the best possible outcome. If you have any questions or concerns about clothing choices during your recovery, don't hesitate to consult with your plastic surgeon.

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

Liposuction is a popular and effective way to contour the body. An extremely important factor in a great result is for the patient to wear a compression garments after liposuction. This allows the body to heal and can create a smooth results. Patients who do not use compression garments are at risk for asymmetry, lumpiness, and wrinkles in the area that have been treated.

Sofia Rubbani, MD · Answer

We usually tell our patients to wear something comfortable like sweat pants or a sweat shirt (depending on the area being treated). The area being treated tends to be a little swollen, constrictive apparel would be uncomfortable to the patient. Patients are sent home with compression garments; so these should be able to fit under clothing easily.
Good Luck.e

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

In terms of initial post-op, I have patients wear a confoming body garment and recommend loose old clothes to go over them. Initially you may have liquids that come out of your incision sites that can stain your clothes. After a few days, this should stop, and you may feel more comfortable wearing loose clothes for a few weeks.

John P. Di Saia, MD · Answer

Hello,
After liposuction you will swell and most surgeons will put you in compressive garments for at least a few weeks. Your clothing will need to be able to fit around this increased "padding" at least for a little while. Sweats are good. :)

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