Do compression garments help mould the body? Regarding breast lift/areola reduction

Question

Is there scientific evidence that compression garments help mould the body into the desired shape after surgery? Or, they're just mainly for swelling etc.? If there is good evidence, what's the usual protocol for wear after surgery?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello.
Great question. Compression garments for post op are surgeons' preference. Not all surgeons allow patients to use compression garments. To answer your question, garments do not affect the overall result of the surgical procedure. Please visit a board certified plastic surgeon for a detailed surgical  plan to achieve your desired results.

Richard A. Bartlett, MD · Answer

Dear KWxxxx,Thank you for your question. Compression garments help to keep post-operative swelling in check. The importance of the compression helps to decrease of swelling and enhance healing, but does not mold your breasts so to speak. I usually have my patients wear a compression garment at all times for at least the first 6 weeks after surgery. Refer to your Board Certified Operating Surgeon for his or her own specific recommendation. Hopefully this was helpful and best of luck to you!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

I always use an underwire bra post-operatively for lift and reduction patients.  This helps mold the breasts, particularly laterally to prevent breast displacement.  I have them wear the bra for a minimum of 2-4 months day and night.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear KWxxxx,
Every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. Generally speaking, compression garments are used after liposuction and tummy tuck in order to prevent swelling and promote healing. 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

Michele A. Shermak, MD · Answer

Hello!You hit the nail on the head. We do not/should not depend on garments to provide your ultimate result. The bra is there to hold dressings in place, provide light support to lighten discomfort and help reduce swelling. The bra does not impact long term results. I typically use a soft bra, avoiding underwires that can put pressure on the breast crease - for about 2 months.Best of luck! Be sure to see a board certified plastic surgeon!

Mathew A. Plant, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Garments can’t actually mould the body but they can help to support it during recovery. Compression is good for liposuction but for a breast lift a supportive bra is usually all that is necessary. The “moulding” of the breasts will be done by your surgeon on the operating room table. Hope that helps!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Garments used after liposuction give comfort, help minimize swelling, and help the skin conform to a better shape. Garments after breast surgery are for protection and comfort. They do not mold the breast unless excessively tight.

Daniel Zeichner, MD · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!Most plastic surgeons will employ postoperative compression to control swelling and to prevent bleeding. Some surgeons recommend compression for 4-6 weeks, some for three months, some use staged compression with varying degrees of tightness, and some do not employ compression garments at all! In our practice, we employ compression for a period of 4 weeks.There is no evidence that compression affects the shape of the final result unless there is postoperative bleeding or excessive swelling. Discuss this issue with your plastic surgeon.Best wishes...

Benjamin Gelfant, MD, FRCSC (retired) · Answer

Hello KWxx;
There is no scientific evidence that garments mould the body. Much of what is done is because of tradition, not because of evidence. There are negatives to garments, not the least of which is discomfort.  Without simultaneous liposuction ( often done to treat extension of the breast fat into the armpit or the lower breast) garments are probably not adding any real benefit. But surgeons each have their individual preferences and there are no hard rules. I don't use them, preferring to start patients in a soft bra a few days after surgery.
Again, be sure you are seeing a certified Plastic Surgeon, preferably a member of the Canadian Society for Aesthetic ( cosmetic ) Plastic Surgery

Best wishes
Benjamin Gelfant MD FRCSC

Do compression garments help mould the body? Regarding breast lift/areola reduction

Answers (9)

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