4 weeks post op choosing compression garment? (Photo)

Question

My doc suggested CG for 6 weeks. I can choose whatever style I want. So trying to figure this out on my own. Does spanx "shaper level" offer enough compression? Marena brands step 2 (4-12 week post-op) all have open crotch I can't get used to. Would step 3 (after 12 week) offer enough compression at 4 weeks post-op? How do i know if it is tight enough but not too tight? If it's not snug enough could that effect finale outcome? Waist measures a 3x, hips a 1x. Having a hard time figuring this out.

R. Brannon Claytor, MD, FACS · Answer

Tummy tuck surgery involves a significant dissection of the abdominal wall with the removal of excess fat and skin. Often the tummy talk is performed in conjunction with Liposuction to achieve a more sculpted and shaped waist and reduction of fat at the flanks in addition to the central abdomen area. Frequently the patient has rectus diastases which is a result of pregnancy and repair of this leads to a flatter more toned abdomen. All of this surgery results in  A compensatory inflammatory response which can result in swelling. Some surgeons will use a drain to minimize the Seroma postoperatively. However keeping the bodies own lymphatic system at Scarpa’s fascia also provides a process for the body to reabsorb this fluid and thus allows for a no drain tummy tuck operation.  The surgical treatment of the excess fat and skin however does results in swelling of the tissue much like a bruised knee swells and ultimately resorbs. This process can be facilitated with compression garments and the duration of compression garments is often unique to the operation patients habitus and the surgeons preference. Often at one month there can be a transition to a more comfortable and aesthetic garment such as a Lululemon or a Spanx compression top. Frequent follow up with your Plastic Surgeon will help you customize these options.

Charles Nduka, MD · Answer

Your surgeon would be your best resource for information regarding post-op management. Each surgeon has his/her own protocols. Generally, however, compression garments are instructed to be worn for 3-4 weeks.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

R Parker,Thanks for the question.Very simple, every surgeon has their own post operative instructions.  Mine is to wear the garment for 3-4 weeks or until the drainage stops.  The garment you chose should be moderately snug, and COMFORTABLE.  Chose whichever one you like the best.  Not too tight and not too loose.Dr T

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I do not routinely place patients in a compression garment after a tummy tuck. I often recommend an abdominal binder to be worn for 3-6 weeks.

Bernabe Vazquez, MD · Answer

Assuming you had liposuction done at same time as your tummy tuck, I believe 6 weeks post op, medical grade compression garments, is a minimum requirement. We only recommend step1 of the brand you mentioned and would advise you that the crotch opening is there for your benefit. We usually have our patients go to a smaller size at about 2 weeks and then again approaching 6 weeks. We have not found the other styles or materials to be as reliable and feel that the investment made in the surgery warrants the best post op care available. Along with compression garments, we STRONGLY recommend lymphatic massages to begin within the first post op week and to continue as affordable, for next 4 weeks. All of this depends on whether liposuction was performed of course, otherwise its a lot less urgent to wear CG's.

4 weeks post op choosing compression garment? (Photo)

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