6 weeks post op tumescent lipo/TT, but still have a lot of swelling. Should I stop wearing my compression garment if it hurts?

Question

However my garment feels like it is rubbing my skin raw although the skin looks fine (aside from the huge swelling lumps from my surgical procedure. The garment just hurts so MUCH especially when it gets hot out and I swell. Cant tell if its helping or hindering at this point.

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

I would discuss this issue with your surgeon. Your garment should be snug, but not hurting "so MUCH." Your garment may be too tight. Not all surgeons use garments, so ask your surgeon about their specific recommendations.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. I believe I have answered some of your previous questions. Usually the compression garment is helpful and you should wear it for as long as your plastic surgeon has instructed you. There is no standard on this, so before you stop wearing it, you should discuss with your plastic surgeon and make sure it is ok.Good luck!

Bradley Remington, MD · Answer

As replied, consult your plastic surgeon for advice and recommendation.  If you continue to have swelling, the use of compression is still helpful.  It sounds like you need a better fitting garment and would benefit from a 'department store' girdle that you can try on and assure that it fits snugly but comfortably.  A trick that I recommend to patients is to put a layer under the garment such as a tank top, camisole, etc.- that can make the garment much more comfortable.
Cheers,
Brad Remington, MD

Bernabe Vazquez, MD · Answer

Swelling can persist for many months after a tummy/lipo. Garments are an essential part of reducing the swelling but so are properly performed lymphatic massages. I tell my patients to start them as early as 2-3 days post op but it is never too late to start. Try wearing a mans undershirt under the garments and make sure that they are first rate medical grade garments and not thick, rough material garments sold at outlets and on-line. "Swelling lumps" to me sound like collections of protein within the fluid that is still present in the tissues and  probably will only resolve with the massages.

6 weeks post op tumescent lipo/TT, but still have a lot of swelling. Should I stop wearing my compression garment if it hurts?

Answers (4)

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