What happens if I stop wearing my tummy tuck compression garment?

Question

I am three and a half weeks post op of a tt, lipo and bbl. What would happen if I stop wearing the compression garment now? I would rather wear spanx.

Steven Vath, MD · Answer

Compression garments do not change your overall outcome from surgery, but they do greatly reduce the amount and length of post-op swelling. I would defer to your surgeon's advise, but in my practice, I am comfortable with patients switching to Spanx after 4 weeks.

Lane Smith, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is always best to discuss any concerns or questions related to your recovery experience with your operating surgeon first as every surgeon has their own set of post operative instructions designed for their patients. With kind regards,Lane F. Smith, M.D., F.A.A.C.S., F.A.O.H.N.S., F.A.B.F.P.R.S.Las Vegas Plastic Surgeon

Trefor Nodwell, MD · Answer

Garments are often a necessary burden when you are recovering from cosmetic surgery procedures. They help control swelling, support muscles and maintain implants in their appropriate position.Often 4 weeks is the recommended minimum but in specific cases some garments can be necessary for 6 weeks or more.I would definitely contact your plastic surgical team. Likely you are almost finished with your garments. Best not to risk your result when you are so close to the end!Take care.Dr Nodwell

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  Compression garments are recommended by surgeons to limit tissue swelling during recovery.  This affords patients improved comfort.  I would speak to your surgeon about your concerns, at 3.5 weeks you may be a good candidate to transition to a thinner garment such as Spanx.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

I would recommend that you discuss this question with your surgeon as every surgeon has their own respective post op protocol for his/her patients.  Your surgeon is your best resource as he/she is most familiar with your medical history and how you are healing at this time.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

#RealSelf100Surgeon

What happens if I stop wearing my tummy tuck compression garment?

Answers (5)