Can I take my binder off sometimes for small periods to relax a bit? Or do I have to keep it on 24 hours a day I

Dear victoriaclarke1111,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for your question! For my patients having a tummy tuck, I recommend they wear the abdominal binder for 3 weeks all day and night, followed by 3 weeks at night only. It is ok to take breaks from the binder throughout the day, but is best to wear most of the time for compression and to help decrease swelling. I recommend discussing specific post op instruction with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck!

I would ask your plastic surgeon about garments and the duration of wear, because each plastic surgeon will have a different protocol.   Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

The purpose of a binder is to support tissues as they heal as well as help control swelling. You should follow your surgeon's post operative instructions regarding wearing the binder. Typically patients are asked to wear the binder continuously at the beginning unless bathing or laundering the garment.

You need to ask your surgeon this question. Each surgeon has his/her own protocol for such, and you need to do what your surgeon suggests.

thank you for your question. I like the garters better than binders , they are more comfortable to wear and more efficient in the recovery process. Best of luck