How Long Does the Average Patient Wear Their Girdle After a Tummy Tuck?

Compression garments and abdominal binders are frequently
used following abdominoplasty for several reasons. These devices provide
compression, which reduces swelling, increases comfort and minimizes the
potential for seroma formation. I
generally tell my patients to use a binder for three weeks following surgery.
When drains are used, we continue the use of the binder for longer periods of
time. It’s interesting to note that when we discontinue the binder, many
patients continue to wear it. They feel that the extra support makes them feel
more comfortable with activity.

I recommend that patients wear compression garment regularly for about 3-4 weeks following a tummy tuck procedure, both day and night (though taken off when bathing). Make sure a snug garment is applied, and is still worn part-time for another two weeks or so afterward so that and excess skin is still reduced. Make sure that compression garment is not uncomfortable or overly pressuring the abdomen, causing activity or sleeping problems.

Three weeks is usually sufficient if muscle repair wasn’t done. It’s up to you whether you’d like to wear it for longer, as many patients become so accustomed to wearing the binder that they continue wearing it for a few more weeks after that.