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.

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!

How long should I wear leg compressors after surgery?

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Answer: How long should I wear leg compressors after surgery?

Answer: Leg compression machine

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How long should I wear leg compressors after surgery?

Answers (8)

Answer: How long should I wear leg compressors after surgery?

Answer: How long should I wear leg compressors after surgery?

Answer: Leg compression machine

Answer: Leg compression machine

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.