Compression Garments and Itching. Is it okay not to wear it at this point? 1 day post-op.

Question

I had liposuction i. My flank area yesterday but have found it impossible to we my compression garment this far because of extreme itchiness. I plan to wear this when my post surgery itchiness subsides but it is out of the question right now. Is it okay not to wear it at this point? Am I risking a poor overall outcome? Seriously, if I try to put it on I feel as if I'm one of those monks of the middle ages going for mortification of the flesh.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Your surgeon will have some helpful suggestions. For my patients I suggest washing the garment, taking an antihistamine such as Zyrtek or Claritin, baby powder on the skin, or putting on an undergarment like a T-shirt beneath it.  When Can I remove the compression garment for a few hours per day - for my patients the answer is after the first post operative day when ever you feel you have to. How long  does a #CompressionGarment need to be worn to help after #Liposuction? For most, my patients wear garments for 3 wks day and night then 3 additional weeks for half a day.If you have had suction of the knees, thigh, or abdomen, the doctor will have put on a compression garment at the end of the surgery. The extra pressure this garment provides helps reduce swelling and discomfort. You should not remove this garment at all until the second or third day after surgery. After that, feel free to remove the garment temporarily for laundering. We want you to have circumferential pressure for 4-6 weeks, but you may switch to an exercise garment (Lycra or Spandex) whenever it feels comfortable to slip it on or off, as you will have to do so in order to go to the bathroom. See the below link for a more fuller explanation and general advice. If you have a rash - contact your surgeon for an evaluation.

Robert Sleightholm, MD · Answer

The compression garment can definitely be itchy.  This is worse if the weather is warm.  I do think compression garments are useful, however, if it is so uncomfortable I suggest that you stop wearing it for a period of time then try again.  Wearing a body suit or a snug fitting t shirt will eliminate the itch.

Heather J. Furnas, MD · Answer

How miserable! Talk to your surgeon about what you're going through. Perhaps you can talk with him/her about putting absorbent pads between you and your garment or switching to another type of compression garment like an abdominal binder. I hope you and your surgeon can work out a happy compromise!Click on the link below to view a case of liposuction of the flanks after all the swelling has resolved. You'll get there, too!All the best.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

After 1 day post op how can we respond? We are NOT the surgeon of record. CALL YOUR SURGEON NOW!.

Compression Garments and Itching. Is it okay not to wear it at this point? 1 day post-op.

Answers (4)