How long should I wear leg compressors after surgery?

Question

Should I purchase a leg compression machine to use at home after my tummy tuck/lipo? If so how many days should I wear it after surgery?

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

These are good if you are immobilized for some reason or other for extended periods of time.  If you are home and ambulating routinely, you really do not need this.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Unless they are specifically mentioned by your surgeon a sequential compression device for your legs is not necessary.  You will be able and will be encouraged to walk a bit each day.  This is important for your recovery.  While in bed your surgeon may suggest compression socks depending on her/his protocol and your medical history.

Emily J. Kirby, MD · Answer

The best, most effective prevention of blood clots after surgery is to walk. Any movement of the calf muscles keeps the blood flowing. If you find yourself resting in bed longer (due to nausea, exhaustion, etc.), you can do toe-up exercises, or better yet, draw the alphabet in the air with your feet! Compression socks can be helpful for up to 30 days after surgery. These easily go along with your walking routine, without causing much fuss. Compressors on your legs are typically not necessary after surgery. If you like them and they are comfortable, you could wear them at night, but I prescribe actual walking to my patients.

Jeffrey K. Scott, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The purpose of compression stockings and the lower extremity intermittent venous compression device is to lower the risk of deep venous thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism after certain surgical procedures (such as a full tummy tuck). I personally provide this device for all my tummy tuck patients to be used during surgery and for 24 hours after the procedure at home. I also recommend wearing venous compression stockings for one full week after a tummy tuck. I certainly encourage frequent walking as well. Ideally the device should be provided to you for that short period of time, if not you should be able to rent one at a medical rental store. This may all seem like overkill, however if it can help prevent one pulmonary embolism, it is more than worth it!

Adolfo Sesto, MD · Answer

Hi. Of course not. The leg compressor is used during hospitalization while the patient is in bed to avoid clot formation. At home you should just walk.Member of the American Society of  Plastic Surgeons (International)Member of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jeffrey H. Lee, MD · Answer

Hi and thanks for your question!  You are better off not getting the leg compression machine for home as this may hinder your ability or desire to walk around in the house.  Getting up and walking around is BY FAR a much better thing to do than using a leg compression machine at home.  Best of luck!

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

What not ask your operative surgeon his recommendations???. Or you can never get a response from the clinic you are using?? Good Luck.

Angel Alejandro Mora, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question.
Compressions socks are used to avoid the risk of trombosis. I recommend using them for a minimal of 15 days and maximum 30. Additionally, you must walk for 30 minutes a day at least, and try to do it in the mornings so you can get some sun, this will stimulate the vitamin D in your body while you work out.
After the first month, you can stop wearing the compression socks and start doing cardio exercises such as: zumba, low impact aerobics, walks, soft bike riding, always keeping low impact to avoid risks.
I hope you find this information helpful

Manuel Belen, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello,Thank you for sharing the information, it is a pleasure for me to answer your question.
Following the recommendations of your surgeon is very important. The recovery takes around 4 to 6 weeks, so it is essential to last a minimum of 10 days in the country for post-surgical consultations, lymphatic drainage massages and drainage, for which you can only do light exercises, just walk for 30 minutes, eat a healthy diet, wear the belt for 3 months and follow the recommendations of your surgeon.
I hope this answer will help youMy best wishes for you...

How long should I wear leg compressors after surgery?

Answers (9)

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