Keep it snatched! Why compression garments are your best friends in recovery
Plastic surgery recovery can be a challenging time for patients. You may be tired, uncomfortable and, worst of all, you can't see the ultimate results of your surgery yet. All you want to do is snuggle up in your most comfortable pajamas, relax and wait for any residual pain and swelling to subside. So, why is your plastic surgeon asking you to jam yourself into a tight little bodysuit? After all, didn't you get surgery to say goodbye to shapewear once and for all?
Compression garments are not the fashion statement of the century. Some people even find them uncomfortable or "tight," but after a plastic surgery procedure, a compression garment will be your best friend.
What is a compression garment?
A compression garment is a specialized piece of clothing designed to apply gentle but consistent pressure to a particular body area. Most compression garments manufactured today are made from latex or allergy-free materials such as nylon or elastic. Compression garments come in numerous styles depending on the medical application. There are bodysuits, sleeves and socks, each with a specialized purpose.
Physicians often prescribe compression socks for diabetic patients, those with poor circulation in the legs or individuals at risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. They are also used on patients who have undergone varicose vein treatments. Compression strength varies depending on the patient's needs.
Sleeves and bodysuits are more common for patients who have undergone plastic surgery or medical procedures like liposuction. Other compression garments can be specially made and tailored to a person's unique measurements to help decrease and flatten scarring in burn patients.
Why are compression garments your best friend postop?
Compression garments are often vital post-surgery because mild and sustained pressure can decrease swelling, aid in the recovery process and help enhance a patient's aesthetic results.
"The compression garments apply constant and consistent pressure to the surgical site, providing several key benefits including reduced swelling and inflammation, enhanced circulation, supporting surgical results, minimizing scarring and reducing the risk of complications – and providing comfort and support," said Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS.
Improving blood flow to a surgical site can speed the healing process and enhance tissue regeneration. Depending on the surgery, these garments can also help reduce the risk of post-surgery complications like blood clots and deep vein thrombosis. Compression garments can also minimize bruising and the formation of hematomas.
"In general, compression garments are critical to get the best and most efficient results right after liposuction and body contouring," said Roy Kim, MD.
While these tiny, stretchy pieces of clothing can work wonders, they can only do their job when you wear them. For some, squeezing into a tight-fitting garment after surgery sounds like torture. However, wearing a compression garment shouldn't be uncomfortable or feel restrictive. In fact, many patients say it can be surprisingly comfortable once a person gets used to the pressure.
"They should be compressive but not too tight," said Dr. Kim, adding that you want the garment to feel snug against the skin while still allowing for some movement and that a compression garment should never feel like it is cutting off your circulation.
Compression garments usually come in two stages based on the strength of the fabric.
"Typically, stage 1 garments are worn immediately after surgery and are firmer to provide support during the initial recovery phase," said Dr. Hadeed. "Once the swelling starts to subside and the patient resumes normal daily activities, a stage 2 garment is worn, which is usually less firm and slightly more comfortable."
Compression garments like binders, bras, masks, socks and other clothing may be required by a plastic surgeon following procedures like liposuction, body contouring and breast reduction, among others. How long you need to wear a compression garment following plastic surgery differs.
"The length of time varies depending on the type of surgery and the preferences of the surgeon, but usually, at a bare minimum, it's recommended to wear the garments around the clock for a minimum of six weeks, followed by part-time wear if needed for several months," said Dr. Hadeed.
However, there are no firm guidelines for how long you'll be wearing each garment.
"Stage 1 garments are typically worn one to two weeks after surgery 24/7," said Dr. Kim. "These garments have more compression and help to reduce post-surgery swelling. Stage 2 garments are typically worn two to six weeks after surgery. These garments are not necessarily meant to be worn 24/7."
It's best to follow the instructions your board-certified plastic surgeon gives you about wearing your compression garments.
How to care for your compression garments
When you put one on, a compression garment can feel like a heavy-duty piece of armor. After all, it provides a lot of stability and support where you need it most. However, these garments can be rather delicate, and a sharp fingernail or poor garment maintenance can be enough to damage them, reducing their effectiveness.
Be gentle when putting on your compression garment. Remove jewelry like rings before putting it on to avoid snagging or ripping the material. If you have long nails, consider wearing gloves while putting on your garment to protect the material and avoid putting a hole through it.
Post-surgery, these garments can collect sweat and body oils. If you have enough garments, try to rotate them regularly, cleaning the worn garment with mild or gentle laundry soap or cleanser in cool water to help prevent stretching or shrinking.
Hand washing is best, but that may not be an option without help or support after surgery. If you must use a machine, use cold water and keep it on a gentle cycle. You can also use a delicates or garment bag to keep your compression garment safe in the wash. Never machine dry compression garments, which can ruin the elastic and reduce the garment's compression level. Always let them air dry.
When not in use, store in a cool, dry place. Roll your compression garments, like a burrito or sushi roll, instead of folding them to preserve the integrity of the compression and fabric.
The skinny on compression garments
Can you get away with not wearing your compression garment after a plastic surgery procedure? Probably. However, the benefits of compression therapy post-surgery far outweigh any potential discomfort or annoyance you may have with these specialized pieces of clothing.
"I think in theory, without any compression garments, you will eventually heal up," said Dr. Kim. "However, you will have a lot more swelling and more discomfort and will need a lot more lymphatic massage sessions to heal correctly with the body contour that you want. Compression garments help a tremendous amount in reducing swelling and generating the best body contouring results."
Remember, sometimes tight results require a tight garment.
To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.
