Why do some surgeons require garments/fajas and lymphatic massages immediately post op, and others don't?

Question

I'm six weeks out from a mommy makeover (that includes Lipo 360/BBL) with a doctor who doesn't use garments/fajas or lymphatic massages for the first week post op. Why do some doctors require these asap, and others don't? Thank you!

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry,  I use compression with binders, girdles, etc routinely after contouring procedures.  There are surgeons who are afraid that if the compression is too much it can cause skin loss by squeezing off the blood supply.  I usually provide and size patient's first set of garments reduce such a risk.  Good Luck.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Each surgeon will have her/his own opinions on many facets of surgery, not just massage and garments.  It is important that you are comfortable and confident in the surgeon you select and the surgical plan created for you.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon to find out her/his reasoning behind the use of these treatments.

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

Surgeons have differing ideas on many issues. Typically these are issues where there is no clear consensus on benefit. While lymphatic drainage can temporarily "move" fluid early post-op, it is quite uncomfortable when done well and has not been shown to improve long term results. In terms of garments, I believe the strongest reason to recommend them is the patients are much more comfortable with the external compression offered, especially in the first few weeks. While I generally stop the garments within three weeks, other surgeons recommend them for three months - and some patients prefer this.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Lymphatic massages after aggressive body liposuction allows the excess fluids to be expressed and helps prevent internal sub cutaneous scar fibrosis. It also seems to speed the healing to make recovery much easier.

Tarick K. Smiley, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Postop instructions may vary from surgeon to surgeon.  Others require garments and massage, while some doctors think that they are nothing but a superfluous practice.  Personally, I recommend the use of compression garments to help remodel the skin after liposuction and keep swelling (edema) to a minimum.Good luck and best wishes.

Why do some surgeons require garments/fajas and lymphatic massages immediately post op, and others don't?

Answers (5)

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