4 months post op: swelling after removing compression garment. Should I continue to wear it?

Question

My doctor told me that I have to wear my compression garment 24/7 for the 1st month, 12 hours for the 2nd-3rd month, and I don't have to wear it anymore after the 3rd month. However, I realise that whenever I remove my compression garment, my stomach and thighs will start to swell a lot... so I'm still wearing it for 12 hours everyday even though I'm already 4 months post op. Will this cause my body to overly rely on the compression garment? Should I continue to wear it?

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
You are still early on the healing process, it can take up to six months to see your final results, so please be patient. At the stage you are in, inflammation and discomfort are still normal.
I suggest my patients to try the lymphatic massages and to use a full body compression garment, 24/7 for the first 3 months, and after that, for 12 hours a day for 3 more months, to get the best results.
If you have any concerns, please follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

Paul C. Dillon, MD · Answer

HISwelling  is normal and will slowly subside three to six months after your procedure, you should see some improvement by now. You should be wearing  a compression garment for 3 months at least 12 hours per day. This will  help with the swelling and shaping of your body. Its always best to discuss your concerns with your surgeon on your follow ups.Best of Luck!

David Azouz, MD, FACS, FRCS(C) · Answer

length of wearing a compression garment is highly dependent on the specifics of a surgery that a patient has. Your plastic surgeon can assess you and perform a physical exam to determine if you still need the garment.  Sometimes patient enjoy wearing compression and usually there is no negative to doing that but it is always best to ask a plastic surgeon first.

4 months post op: swelling after removing compression garment. Should I continue to wear it?

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4 months post op: swelling after removing compression garment. Should I continue to wear it?

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