Did I ruin my results after lipo by not wearing the proper compression garment for two days? I only wore Spanx.

Question

I had a proper compression garment after doing lipo on my upper and lower abdomen and flanks but it started digging into my skin and making dents. It also really hurt me. So for two days I wore Spanx while waiting for another one to come in the mail. I’m only a week into recovery. Did I ruin my results or put myself at risk for fibrosis? I’m really nervous!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear mushky88,compression garments are used to reduce swelling and most plastic surgeons recommend them 24/7 in order to achieve the best results. However, it should not be too tight to cause pain or discomfort. It is unlikely that this pause will cause permanent negative results. If you are concerned, I would suggest you to consult 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

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

mushky88.   I appreciate your concern, but you did nothing wrong and probably acted properly. An elastic garment that is too tight can be extremely uncomfortable and cause skin irregularities and it was prudent of you to remove it and use Spanks in the meantime, until your new garment arrived. I often use Spanks in place of the elastic garment if the patient has issues with comfort. Spanks are a reasonable alternative. Stay in contact with your plastic surgeon and best of luck!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I have my patients wear customized compression. It's unlikely you ruined your results, but I would follow up with your practitioner to make sure your new garment fits correctly. For after care, I recommend adding hyperbaric oxygen and lymphatic massage along with your compression to help decrease swelling. To improve your final results, I also recommend adding vanquish for further fat removal, exilis/venus legacy for skin tightening, cellutone/z wave to make the skin smooth, remove scar tissue, and improve the skin’s appearance. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

Hello mushky88,
It’s a pleasure to answer your questions! Proper post-operative care is essential to positively impact your liposuction final outcome. I usually recommend my patients wearing specialized compression garments to reduce swelling and help their skin contract smoothly to their new body’s contours. These specially designed garments must be worn around the clock for approximately 6 months. On the contrary, wearing standard liposuction garments, Spanx, or shape wear can compromise the final post-operative results. The right garment for you would be the one that provides proper support for the skin and offers the maximum possible comfort. It’s always best to discuss with your plastic surgeon about the type of garment and size that fits best your specific needs. Also, I typically advise my patients that, without lymphatic drainage massages, there is a risk that the swelling and inflammation could turn into fibrosis, which is a permanent hardening of the area. At least ten lymphatic drainage massage sessions are required, starting 24 hours after the procedure, to eliminate excess lymph fluid, alleviate swelling and discomfort, and also prevent complications such as seromas (fluid collection) and contour irregularities (indentations, and/or fibrosis). In my experience, manual lymphatic massages by their own have proven successful, in the majority of cases, in achieving uniform removal of swelling and ensuring smooth contours. Since every case is different, consult with your plastic surgeon about your specialized compression garments and any other specific needs and concerns. Best wishes! Dr. De La Cruz.

Scot Martin, MD · Answer

First, congratulations on your liposuction! It seems like you’re doing an excellent job of following your plastic surgeon’s guidelines and doing everything you can to have a smooth, seamless recovery. A compression garment that is too tight can cause problems in its own right, so wearing Spanx until you were able to get a more comfortable surgical garment was perfectly fine. If you have other concerns during recovery, don’t be afraid to reach out to your plastic surgeon.

Vincent D. Lepore, MD (retired) · Answer

Don't worry, even if you wore no garment at all, for only two days, it shouldn't compromise your results.  Let your surgeon know about your garment issues.  They may help you get a garment that will work but be more comfortable.  Best wishes, Dr. Lepore.

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