Why are fajas recommended post-op when the can squeeze the butt even if it's loose around the bottom?

This is a very contentious question and ultimately each surgeon will  do what works best in their hands. I personally agree with you and only have my patient wear waist binders so there is no pressure on the butt and hips. I find that even the garments with completely open areas still cause lines and ridges along the edges. 

Hi and thank you very much for your question. In my practice, my patients wear fajas immediately after surgery for 4-8 weeks depending on the procedure. Every surgeon is different in regard to their preferences so I recommend you meet with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to to discuss you concerns further and decide the best treatment for you. I hope this helped. Best wishes! Dr. Aydin

Hello and thank you for the question. Compression garment is typically placed immediately after the surgery. I have my patients wear compression garment for 3-4 weeks postoperatively, but other surgeons may have other preferences. There are special compression garments for BBL that many plastic surgeons use, that are contoured around the buttocks for a more customized compression. Please discuss your concerns with your surgeon. Best,
Pejman Aflaki, M.D.                                            
Johns
Hopkins-trained double board-certified plastic surgeon

I usually suggest wearing a compression garment that does not compress any area that has had fat grafting for at least 6 weeks. After this there may not be a need to compress the area but this is on a case by case basis. I do suggest wearing a compression garment for the areas where the fat is taken from however as this will help with swelling and final shape. 

The PS you have selected to perform your TT, BBL, and lipo should provide you with post operative instructions, one of which will be the type of compression garment and length of wear.  Based upon his/her experience not all PSs recommend a compression garment as each patient is unique. 
Our office provides our TT and BBL patients with an adjustable compression garment manufactured by Clear Point.  The  patients like the support it provides to the back and to the abdomen.  The only complaint I have heard is related to the "itchiness" of the fabric which can be remedied by wearing a soft t-shirt under the garment.
The patients who tend to have healing issues with larger volume liposuction procedures tend to be the ones who do not wear the compression garments at all, wear them very inconsistently, or do not wear them snugly covering all areas of liposuction. I prefer adjustable garments with multiple bands so that tension can be adjusted. The key here is the size and the ability to tighten the garment, not the brand or make.

Thank you for sharing your question.  I agree that fajas are too tight for the stomach after a tummy tuck as it may compromise blood flow.  I would discuss your concerns with your surgeon as light compression is likely all that is required. 

Dear Ohio girl,   All the surgery cases that you mentioned  are managed differently as far as compression garments. In none of these cases do my patients wear Faja at the initial healing phase. Once the healing period is surpassed, they can wear Faja for comfort if they so desire.  In regard to BBL, let me tell you that it is a total waste of your time and money, because the fat disappears completely, or almost completely after few months or even sooner, as I have seen on hundreds of patients who came to my surgery center for butt implants surgery after their big disappointment from the failed BBL that was done by other surgeons. I do not do  BBL  for that reason.  Think about BBL this way. If large amounts of fat injection procedure  was consistent and reliable, most women would have preferred it for breasts augmentation over breasts implants. The reality is that the number one cosmetic surgery in the US is breasts augmentation with implants ... Unfortunately, BBL just does not work !!!   My compression garments are Dale binders. On butt augmentation I apply 2 straps around the butt, to protect the wound and reduce the likelihood of bleeding. I apply it immediately after surgery and keep it on for one month, until the wound healing is quite strong.  On tummy tuck I use 2 binders, one for the upper abdomen and second one for the lower abdomen, because the girth is different. I apply it few days after surgery, once the patients are totally recovered from anesthesia and do not use narcotics any more. The drowsiness from anesthesia and narcotic reduces the compliance with post operative instruction, which can cause wound healing problems , or even partial skin loss. The binder is worn for 2-3 months, until the abdominal muscles repair is strong and secure.  My liposuction patients do no wear any compression garments, because I perform very aggressive liposuction with the Microair PAL system, creating very thin skin flaps . Compression garments can apply too much pressure on the skin , cut off the circulation and cause skin loss. The safest way is to let the body heals on its own.   Always, consult with experienced board certified plastic surgeons who operate in accredited surgery center for your safety. Most importantly, check the before and after pictures in the photo gallery, to make sure that they are numerous, consistent and attractive.                 Best of luck,                                 Dr Widder

Dear Ohiogirl100,
Compression garments are used to prevent swelling and promote healing. But every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thanks for your question.I agree with you. IMO Fajas are often too tight. Particularly after a tummy tuck. If a garment is too tight it can cause healing problems and even increase swelling. After the initial binder comes off I favor gentle compression with a spanx like garment not too tight. Think spandex body suit. Best wishes.

Compression garments and type used will vary by surgeon.  They are intended to help support tissues and control swelling during healing.  It is best to speak with your surgeon on what is recommended for you and the rationale behind it.