Is a Compression Garment Needed for Arms and Thighs?

A combination of liposuction, abdominoplasty and buttock fat injection is very popular.  After surgery, my patients wear a "lower body garment" that goes from the margin of the rib cage to just below the knees (we supply it and patients wake up wearing it).  This garment helps limit swelling and may help the swelling resolve more quickly.  You could also buy a similar girdle to use later on as an alternative to this garment.

The arms are at a higher level relative to your heart, so that the venous pressure is lower.  Therefore compression is less important for your arms.  However, I think some snugly fitting athletic wear (like Under Armour) works well.  Buy the shirt that has long sleeves.  It is important to realize that the garment does not affect the end result and does not make your contours smoother (the fat cells do not move around).  But it is valuable for comfort and in helping the swelling to go away sooner.  I have attached a link for liposuction of the arms, and you can read more if you like.

   I usually provide compression garments to my patients which cover all of the areas liposuctioned.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Compression garments are very commonly used after Plastic Surgery procedures.  Their main benefits are to reduce swelling after a procedure, to add support and comfort, and in some situations to reduce open spaces where flaps have been used to reduce the chance of fluid accumulation by enhancing tissue adherence.  There is scant evidence that they affect the aesthetic outcome, but probably play a larger role in minimizing problems.  While not absolutely mandatory in liposuction cases, they are helpful in managing swelling, bruising and discomfort.  Some surgeons package the garments with the procedure costs, others have you buy them online.  Medical grade compression garments are very well constructed and designed but costly.  In many situations, less well manufactured or compressive products such as those available at department stores, athletic supply outlets, and fashion houses would suffice.  It makes sense to discuss your specific procedure and compression garment with your surgeon.  You can purchase several types (leave tags in place) that you think would be comfortable and affordable and share them with your surgeon.  Once you get the OK, then return the others to your retailer.  This should help keep your recovery uneventful and save you a few dollars.  Best of luck!