I am 7 weeks post op from a tummy tuck and muscle repair. I am currently wearing a stage 2 marena brief (goes up to breast line) which I can't stand because it makes me have "back fat". Is it necessary to continue wearing something this tight? When can I wear regular underwear? I am going on a cruise in 2 weeks and am wondering if there is something less constrictive to wear that won't show my rolls.
November 20, 2014
Answer: Compression garments after tummy tuck Thank you for your question. Every plastic surgeon has their own routine for the use of garments after tummy tucks and liposuction. While some plastic surgeons recommend their use for three months or more, others limit their use. I typically have my patients wear a binder for only two weeks after a tummy tuck, but would suggest contact your plastic surgeon for advice.The use of a compression garment is supposed to limit the swelling and fluid buildup that can occur after a tummy tuck. However, there are no definitive studies about the duration of their use. For that reason, there is wide variation among plastic surgeons. My personal thought is to use the binder for 1 week after the drains are removed, and that use after that is for comfort only.I hope that this is helpful and wish you safe travels on your cruise.Jeff Rockmore
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November 20, 2014
Answer: Compression garments after tummy tuck Thank you for your question. Every plastic surgeon has their own routine for the use of garments after tummy tucks and liposuction. While some plastic surgeons recommend their use for three months or more, others limit their use. I typically have my patients wear a binder for only two weeks after a tummy tuck, but would suggest contact your plastic surgeon for advice.The use of a compression garment is supposed to limit the swelling and fluid buildup that can occur after a tummy tuck. However, there are no definitive studies about the duration of their use. For that reason, there is wide variation among plastic surgeons. My personal thought is to use the binder for 1 week after the drains are removed, and that use after that is for comfort only.I hope that this is helpful and wish you safe travels on your cruise.Jeff Rockmore
Helpful
November 20, 2014
Answer: Tummy Tuck and Compression Garments The answer is you don't have to wear them any longer. If you hate them, remove them and enjoy your cruise.However, they still have a limited role.In general, compression has three roles.1- Bruising and swelling.Most of this is gone in your case after so much time.2- Scar maturation.Incisions and scars love pressure.Burn patients wear pressure garments for a year. Your scar loves the pressure and it helps it fade. In your case, the short time on the cruise in not a big deal.3- Diet and portion control.Garments help us loose weight and stay trim. This is more important for some then others depending on weight and diet. Portion control is helped by the tightness of the garment.I would recommend that you enjoy your cruise and don't worry about it.But wear it as much as possible. And when you return, try and wear it some more.Have a great cruise!Dr Chris Saunders
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November 20, 2014
Answer: Tummy Tuck and Compression Garments The answer is you don't have to wear them any longer. If you hate them, remove them and enjoy your cruise.However, they still have a limited role.In general, compression has three roles.1- Bruising and swelling.Most of this is gone in your case after so much time.2- Scar maturation.Incisions and scars love pressure.Burn patients wear pressure garments for a year. Your scar loves the pressure and it helps it fade. In your case, the short time on the cruise in not a big deal.3- Diet and portion control.Garments help us loose weight and stay trim. This is more important for some then others depending on weight and diet. Portion control is helped by the tightness of the garment.I would recommend that you enjoy your cruise and don't worry about it.But wear it as much as possible. And when you return, try and wear it some more.Have a great cruise!Dr Chris Saunders
Helpful
November 19, 2014
Answer: Compression garment Thanks for the question. My patients are asked to wear the abdominal binder for two to three months. If they find it uncomfortable I get them into a fitted girdle. Hope this helps. The longer the better when it comes to compression garments
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November 19, 2014
Answer: Compression garment Thanks for the question. My patients are asked to wear the abdominal binder for two to three months. If they find it uncomfortable I get them into a fitted girdle. Hope this helps. The longer the better when it comes to compression garments
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