Is using foam under compression garments after lipo absolutely necessary?

Question

Is using foam under compression garments after lipo absolutely necessary? Does it actually help at all? If so, how long should it be worn? Going for lipo to abdomen, flanks, hips, with mini tuck in 2 weeks. (Not that it's relative but also a divot bbl and BA replacement)

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Thanks for the question, I think I have literally tried every possible combination of garments and foams possible. We completely abandoned foam because it seem to cause more problems than it solves. At the end of the day I have realized its the technology and technique used in surgery that will determine your outcome not the garment or the foam. Make sure you are happy with your choice of surgeon!

Richard G. Schwartz, MD · Answer

Foam pads placed inside compression garments after liposuction serve one main purpose.  The prevent linear depressed lines/grooves that might form where seams in the compression garments or binder occasionally press inward when you sit or bend in certain directions.  They are not necessary but can be helpful.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

Foam provides an even surface to avoid irregularities that can develop from garments that fold against your skin. They are typically used only in the first 1-2 week period and then the garment alone can be used after this.  They are most helpful in the anterior abdomen.

Kyle Coleman, MD · Answer

Using foam under compression garments has been controversial at times in the field.  Some surgeons still prefer to use it; however, it is not a necessity by any means.  Every physician has a different technique and different recommendations about post-op care; there is no right or wrong answer.  The most important factor is choosing a physician that has experience in the procedure.

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

Foam underneath the garments is not absolutely necessary, but I do use it from time to time to help with proper compression.

Karl William Schwarz, MD · Answer

I think it is super helpful to wear foam underneath your garment after lipo for several reasons. One is comfort&mdash;it feels better to have the extra padding. It also helps to control bruising and line formation, protects the skin from circulation problems as it displaces the pressure of a garment, prevents seams from indenting and etching the skin, and can be used to apply more pressure in areas known to accumulate fluid like in the back just about the buttock crease.
The foam should be applied by therapists who can also perform massage and lymphatic drainage and understand the healing process, know where to place the foam, how to place the foam, and provide guidance on garment fitting. I send all of my lipo and BBL patients for ten or twenty massage treatments after lipo and I think it is very, very helpful to the patient in terms of comfort, minimizing skin problems, and obtaining the very best results possible.

Steven Schuster, MD, FACS · Answer

Whether or not to use foam or even compression garment is the physician's choice.  I use it but some of my colleagues don't even use compression garments.  Of note, if you are having your surgery done in the office remember that Florida Board of Medicine rules prohibit removing more than 1000 cc's of fat when combining it with other procedures like a mini-tummy tuck or implant exchange.  Discuss this with your plastic surgeon.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear, thanks for your post. After your surgery, it is better to use compression under your faja 
for at least 3 weeks, and then switch to a tighten garment. The one that
 is going to make your curves. Use
 compression on your lower back, where the liquid can accumulate because
 of liposuction, also on your sides, where we can be very swollen. On 
your upper and lower abdomen it is important to apply compression too, 
it will help you to drain better and faster. You can use: Epi-Foams, Feminine Pads, surgical board and anything soft you can put to help you to reduce swelling! But remember to always ask to your PS. Good luck :)

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

It is your chosen operative surgeon's decision on use of foam under garments!>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Is using foam under compression garments after lipo absolutely necessary?

Answers (9)

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