Is a sequential compression device after tummy tuck useful? Trying to reduce chances of deep vein thrombosis / complications.

Thank you for your question! As long as you are up moving around after surgery a SCD machine is unnecessary. After surgery, it is best to move around and not stay immobile in ned which helps speed up healing. Best of luck!

Hello realself number 09903993,
thank you for question regarding whether sequential compression devices after a tummy tuck are useful and whether sequential compression devices reduce the chances of the venous thrombosis DVTs and pulmonary embolus or PE.
Sequential compression devices absolutely do decrease the incidence of deep venous thrombosis and potentially fatal pulmonary emboli. Many plastic surgeons, including myself, believe in sequential compression devices so much, that I give all my tummy tuck and body lift patients sequential compression devices to take home and keep. The cost is minimal and the potential complications of wearing sequential compression devices are almost none. My tummy tuck patients wear their sequential compression garments for at least two weeks after their tummy tuck. In addition, some plastic surgsome plastic surgeons, including myself, go above and beyond to minimize the chances of deep venous thrombosis by having their patients take two weeks of Lovenox (blood thinners) injections. This combination of sequential compression devices and Lovenox minimize and almost eliminate the incidence of deep venous thrombosis and PEs. My take home message would be definitely wear sequential compression devices after a tummy tuck. If you have any more questions regarding the tummy tuck or abdominoplasty, please contact my office. Since an abdominoplasty can be a difficult procedure, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing tummy tucks. Do your research. Make sure your chosen plastic surgeon has performed at least 100 abdominoplasties. Make sure they have the before and after pictures to prove it. Carefully examine their before and after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf. Good luck! Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and ​member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Thank you for your inquiry! We would love to sit down with you to discuss your concerns. Based on your medical history, your surgeon will be able to provide insight on your post-operative care. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you reach your goals.

Since the beginning practice, I use 10 days of Lovenox and I have the patients take home an SCD machine for 7 days on EVERY patient. Very low bleeding risk. Can't be too careful, there is no guarantee, and risk reduction is crucial when dealing with young moms.

This is a question for the plastic surgeon who performs your TT as plastic surgeon preferences for types of compression garments and length of wear vary. I recommend that my patients wear an adjustable abdominal compression garment for six weeks. This compression garment does not cover the buttocks or the hips.

Sequential compression devices are important during the surgery itself. After surgery getting up and walking helps prevent clots. If your surgeon wants you to have compression stocking they can send you home with a set to borrow. I would not buy a set

Dear RealSelfMember09903993,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Hello, sequential compression devices (SCDs) are standard practice for most major surgeries for use while patients are under general anesthesia. Post-operatively they may continue to be used, but typically only in hospital settings (i.e. not at home). Most surgeons would recommend early ambulation (walking) and TED/compression stockings for risk reduction of post operative DVT. I recommend consulting with your board certified plastic surgeon. Based on your medical history, they may calculate a risk score (i.e. Caprini Score) for post operative DVT risk and provide further recommendations from there.

Sequential Compression Devices are sometimes used during surgery but are not typically necessary afterward. It is important that you walk around several times a day and take nice deep breaths. Your surgeon will let you know if compression socks or any medications are recommended for you based on your medical history.

SCD's used during and after surgery, especially in the first 24 hours, can be very helpful. Your surgery center will use these during surgery and in recovery room.