Can Wearing Compression Garments Incorrectly Lead to Bad Results? (photo)

Question

I'm 10 days post-op from neck lipo and arm lift. I'm pleased and grateful for the procedure, but also hopeful it will improve even further. I've been wearing compression on my neck 24/7. My surgeon switched me from the original compression garment to a simple ace bandage. When I take off the ace, I can see lumpy lines where the compression isn't exactly "even". Is this a sign that I am wearing it incorrectly? Might I compress my neck into a permanently deformed state if I wear it wrong?

Ryan A. Stanton, MD · Answer

You are likely seeing these "lumpy lines" because there is residual swelling that is getting squeezed into this formation. This is typically a temporary thing that resolves without consequence over time as the swelling resides completely. Make sure to keep your follow-up appointments with your operating surgeon to assure this resolves as such. Glad to help... @drryanstanton

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

These lines may be from the compression or from skin incorrectly pulling posteriorly. After my chin and neck liposuctions, I ask my patients to massage and apply compression intermittently to improve results.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Compression garments can cause some wrinkling of the skin if it is not smooth.  This can alter your result.  I would point out your skin to your PS and maybe the ACE can be abandoned for a better compression that is different from your first garment.

	Dr. ES

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

In general, there will be residual swelling after chin liposuction for several weeks. I recommend the prefabricated garment. However, if the bandage is preventing a fluid collection and providing good support, this is not unreasonable. Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

There are various types of compression garments for use after liposuction of the neck. You most likely still have some swelling present at 10 days after your procedure, so the area may not look completely even at this point. It would be difficult to wear the compression garment incorrectly, and even if you did, I doubt it would have a significant influence on your final result. You will not compress your neck into a permanently deformed state.

Can Wearing Compression Garments Incorrectly Lead to Bad Results? (photo)

Answers (8)