Are compression garments needed after breast fat transfers or does this only apply to liposuctioned areas?

I do not recommend a surgical bra as this can irritate incisions. A compression garment is to be worn 7/24 for six weeks over the areas that were liposuctioned (typically the thighs and abdomen). Recovery is usually relatively quick. Some PSs will recommend wearing a sports bra for about six weeks, starting immediately after surgery. Most patients will experience some discomfort, swelling and mild bruising around the donor and breast areas for 1 - 3 days after the procedure. Many of my patients return to work after 4 - 7 days if that work is non strenuous and sedentary. Vigorous exercise should be postponed for two weeks.

Hello,
Thank you for the question.
Breast lipofilling using fat grafting may require a few sessions (surgeries) to achieve a fuller cleavage, which is an important consideration for many patients.
Compression garments are important to help minimize swelling in the areas where liposuction was performed. Lymphatic massages are a great adjunct as well. I typically recommend patients to wear compression garments for 4-6 weeks after the procedure and just a surgical bra/sports bra.
I suggest that you seek an in person consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon specializing in Breast Surgeries in order to discuss your goals and concerns for the best cosmetic results. I hope this helps.
Best regards,
Dr. Irena KaranetzBreast Fellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Dear sarahtaylor44,
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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

I avoid any compression to the fat grafts to avoid the grafts from dying. The compression garments are for the areas treated with liposuction.

Each provider will have their own recommendation in regards to compression garments. There is no evidence that compression garments have any impact or influence and final results after either Liposuction or fat transfer procedures.
In our practice we asked patients to wear a compression garments for two weeks after the procedure and longer if they find them comfortable and helpful. this includes areas treated with fat transfer though typically we select garments that don’t put excessive pressure on grafted areas. mild diffuse pressure is unlikely to have a negative impact on grafted fat. Deep firm pressure and excessive movement is undesirable during the early healing phase of any type of tissue grafting.
Some providers ask patients to follow certain protocols including the use of compression garments for many months while others take far more of a hands off approach.
There’s no proven benefit to using compression garments in regards to final outcome.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD