Switch binder to compression garment?

Question

I has a drainless TT and BL with Aug. along with lipo of the flanks 6 days ago. My surgeon gave me 2 binders to wear around the clock, which I've been doing. They keep shifting and folding. At post op apt I asked for a compression garment. He said he uses binders. He recommended Spanx. It seems most doctors on RS recommend a CG. I'm willing to buy one myself to return to work. How do I size myself? What kind should I buy? I'm so swollen that I'm measuring wider than pre surgery! Please advise.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello. Binders tend to be easier to work with initially but they can be shifty. You require compression over a number of areas by the sound of it. If your Surgeon agrees with this option for you,  there are a number of reputable surgical garment suppliers which your Plastic Surgeon's office might be able to help you order from. They are pricy but are designed for maximum effectiveness post surgery as opposed to Spanx purchased at a department store. All the best!

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. I recommend you to use what your surgeon told you because he knows better your case. In my practice i prefer to recommend to my patients compression garment.Respectfully,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, like your PS, I tend to recommend binders over compression garments after TT surgery because binders are very easy to adjust and remove for showering and wound care, plus they tend to give very good compression.  However, some patients don't tolerate the binder and they are switched over to another type of compression.  I think that before switching over you should discuss your problem with your PS to ensure they agree with your plan.  If so, they can help you with measurements and appropriate sizing of the garment.  Depending on the garment type, multiple measurements might be required.

Michael J. Denk, MD, FACS · Answer

I favor binders over compression garments for my tummy tuck patients. Wearing a t-shirt under the binder can be helpful. Most of my patients wear a binder for 10-12 days, then switch to a soft compression tank or onesie (Spanx and Maidenform). In general, compression garments are over used and can be injurious. Best to listen to your surgeon. Hope this helps.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, there.  Every plastic surgeon differs in his/her post-operative recommendation.  I usually use binder; however, if the binder does not fit the patient right, I use different type of binder or compression garment.  Explain to your plastic surgeon that your binder is not staying on or shifting.  Since he has operated on you, he should be able to give you a better recommendation on the size and type of the compression garment.  There are several companies that make the compression garment and they have their own sizing chart.  In regards to swelling, it is normal to be swollen for couple months.  Compression/binder is important. Follow up with your plastic surgeon closely.  Good luck.

Kiran Polavarapu, MD · Answer

In my practice, I use marena garments for compression. However, you should follow your plastic surgeon's advice and not deviate from his instruction. His goal is to give you the best possible result and recovery in conjunction with the surgery that he performed. He would be your best advisor.

Switch binder to compression garment?

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