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Why Do I Need to Wear Compression Garments After a Tummy Tuck?

Posted July 01, 2021 By: The Office of Birmingham Specialists

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)


3 Minute Read:

Tummy tuck surgery is an invasive yet highly popular body contouring procedure that helps hundreds of thousands of men and women achieve their ideal cosmetic body goals every year. It involves the removal of abdominal skin and fat, muscle tightening, and other advanced techniques to address various cosmetic and functional concerns for the ultimate midsection transformation. [ Read PDF article: 2020 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report ]

Seated woman touching her toes wearing a white t-shirt and underwear against a beach backdrop.

One of the most critical aspects of the tummy tuck recovery process is the use of the compression garment. While compression garments are often part of plastic surgery recoveries, their use after a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is especially vital.

This garment is worn during the initial recovery for approximately four weeks. Of course, this will vary depending on the extent of your surgery and if other procedures were combined with the tummy tuck, such as a Mommy Makeover, a body lift, or surgery post-major weight loss.

Made from strong, high-quality fabrics, post-op compression garments provide support and aid in achieving optimal results.

Here is why it is so beneficial to wear a compression garment during your initial recovery as directed by your surgeon.

Key Reasons to Use Compression Garments After Tummy Tuck Surgery

1. Reduces Swelling

A compression garment applies constant pressure on operated tissues, preventing the excessive buildup of fluids. This manages postoperative swelling and reduces the potential for fluid-retention-related problems.

2. Enhances Results

Wearing a compression garment is also crucial for achieving a smoother and more even outcome — essential for optimal abdominoplasty results.

A compression garment holds everything in place, minimizing skin rippling, formation of bumps, keloid scars, or a wrinkled appearance to the skin. It also helps retain the balanced silhouette created by the procedure.

Compression garments are a great way to shape and maintain your body’s new contours so they heal in the correct position.

3. Promotes Faster Healing

Additionally, patients can expect to experience a more pleasant and quicker recovery by wearing a compression garment. By minimizing swelling and ensuring comfort during recovery, patients can get back to living their life sooner after surgery.

Another added benefit is that compression garments reduce the risk of pulling, stretching, or opening the incision, leading to wound separation and, thus, a longer recovery.

4. Less Pain and Discomfort

Compression garments apply gentle pressure on the treated area to reduce pain and discomfort. Great care is taken to ensure that you do not end up with an ill-fitting compression garment that is uncomfortable or leaves permanent indentations.

If you find that your post-surgical garment is uncomfortable, do not hesitate to mention it to your medical care team for adjustments or advice on how to make things a little more pleasant.

Considering Tummy Tuck Surgery in Birmingham?

Are you considering tummy tuck surgery?

We invite you to contact us at 205-298-8660 or fill our online form to schedule a consultation. Dr. Oliver and Dr. Jack will guide you through the options and help you select the best tummy tuck compression garment for proper, speedy healing and a cosmetically pleasing result.