Tag: compression garments

Good Compression Garments after Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Good Compression Garments after Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty

Wearing a Compression Garment after Abdominoplasty

A tummy tuck – abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that can transform your body and sculpt your tummy area. It eliminates excess fat and skin, and can give you a toned look. Choosing the right plastic surgeon is vital when it comes to getting the desired results. However, after the surgery is the recovery phase that requires special care and a bit of preparation. Recovery is as important as the surgery itself if you want to minimise complications and enjoy the look of your new tummy as soon as possible. One of the most important elements of recovery is a good quality compression garment after abdominoplasty. It can also be called a binder. It is important to wear it as directed by Dr Hunt for an easy, smooth, and fast recovery. Post-surgery, one of the most common side effects is excessive swelling and fluid retention at the treatment site. The right compression garment can help tackle that and allow you to recover as quickly as possible.

Guide to Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty

Tummy Tuck

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Think of a tummy tuck – abdominoplasty compression garment as a heavily elasticated garment that stretches around your mid-section, almost like a girdle. It should be quite snug and will put pressure on the treatment site that will help minimise swelling and offer support. The garment generally covers the entire area, starting from your breasts, down to the hips.

Dr Hunt Answers Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty Surgery Questions

UPDATE  NEW 30175 MEDICARE ITEM NUMBER – The Australian Government has a NEW Medicare Item Number for a Tummy Tuck – abdominoplasty for some eligible post-pregnancy patients with 3cm+ Diastasis Recti (Split Tummy Muscles) if you are eligible and meet the new medical criteria. This new 30175 Medicare Item Number – is effective from 1st July 2022. Read the 30175 Medicare Item Number factsheet.

If you qualify for the 30175 Medicare item number you may also get a subsidy from your Health Fund. There will still be a significant out-of-pocket GAP as Private Tummy tuck – abdominoplasty surgery is NOT FREE.

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with cosmetic clinics in Sydney and Wollongong NSW. He has performed hundreds of tummy tuck – abdominoplasty procedures in over 20 years of practice.

2074 tummy tuck sydney dr jeremy hunt

Benefits of Wearing a Compression Garment after Abdominoplasty

This is one of the most commonly asked questions we get. As the compression garment is quite snug, most patients find it quite uncomfortable to wear especially during the first few days after the surgery. You need to wear it as long as possible because it will essentially help you recover faster and offers the following benefits:

1.     Reduced Risk of Seroma Formation

The collection of excess fluid underneath the skin is referred to as seroma. Seroma is considered to be the most common complication individuals experience post-abdominoplasty or any kind of surgery. A compression garment can reduce the risk considerably. It puts even pressure on the tissues that were treated during the surgery. Hence, the pockets of fluid can be minimised.

2.     Improved Circulation

Better circulation is the key to healing faster after the surgery. The blood circulating inside your body is responsible for delivering essential nutrients to the treated areas and promoting healing. It also reduces swelling, bruising, and minimises the risk of blood clot formation which can be fatal. The garment is also helpful for blood circulation which can further minimise the risk.

3.     Makes You Feel Comfortable & Supported

Although the compression garment can feel quite snug for the first few days, it can make you feel quite secure and comfortable during daily activities. The compression garment will offer a layer of protection to the damaged tissues and incision lines and prevent them from being pulled or strained. In fact, a lot of patients like to wear a compression garment even longer than advised as it makes them feel quite secure and reminds them to move more carefully.

4.     Improved Contouring

There is always a slight chance that uneven contours will appear after this type of intervention. A lot of contour irregularities become permanent and aren’t corrected early on in your recovery.  A compression garment can help flatten out the lumps and bumps.

Read more about the Benefits of Wearing a Compression Garment after Cosmetic Surgery here.

Brands for a Compression Garment After Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty

Here is the list of the best compression garment brands recommended by Dr Hunt’s team for use after abdominoplasty surgery.

OTHER GARMENT SUPPLIERS

Which Compression Garment Is Right for You?

Finding the right compression garment involves more than reading a list. You need to feel comfortable while wearing it and ensure it is doing something for the healing.

The goal is to find something that offers the right support and pressure.

Compression garments are generally recommended for the second stage of recovery. During the first stage of recovery, Dr Hunt might ask you to wear an abdominal binder. You may be wearing your compression garment for weeks or months. Make sure to take your time in selecting the right one that fits. You can also ask Dr Hunt’s team to make recommendations. Make sure to try a few before the surgery so you can select the right one for yourself.

Having Trouble Breathing When Wearing a Compression Garment after Abdominoplasty?

Some patients have had trouble breathing while wearing a compression garment. While the garment has to be snug, your compression garment shouldn’t prevent you from breathing properly. Make sure it isn’t causing you any pain while you are wearing it. If it is causing you discomfort, it is important to let Dr Hunt know and get a different one. In certain cases, the trouble breathing is not caused by compression garments but by not breathing right.

Breathe the Right Way

As you breathe, three parts of the body are involved in the process: the intercostal muscles, diaphragm and abdominal muscles. When you are breathing in, the muscles contract upwards and outwards and allow your lungs to expand fully with air. During this time, the diaphragm will move downwards to create space for your lungs. If you are breathing properly, your chest will rise and widen along with the expansion of your stomach. And you will feel a lot more comfortable.

Belly Breathing

Over the years, the belly has become more common as we have become lazy with how we breathe. Instead of involving all three parts with every single breath, we use only our stomach to breathe. Look closely at how you breathe. If your stomach expands and contracts while breathing but your chest isn’t moving, you are belly breathing. If you are belly breathing, you will find it difficult to breathe while wearing a compression garment. You shouldn’t rely on your stomach to breathe in the air. Your stomach won’t expand because of the constant pressure on your compression garment.

If that’s true, you need to be conscious about how you breathe. Make sure you feel your rib cage expand with every single breath and along with the diaphragm and abdominal muscles.

Now that you know how to breathe properly and have the list of the best compression garments to use post-surgery, you will be able to get the maximum comfort and support while breathing properly.

Further Reading about Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty Surgery

Medical References about Recovery after the Abdominoplasty

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon Sydney

dr jeremy hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is optimal for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and, through his guidance, can achieve good results.

Dr Hunt’s personal, one-on-one service and attention to detail has given thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia the aesthetic results they desire.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast reduction is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.

Benefits of Wearing a Compression Garment after Cosmetic Surgery
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Benefits of Wearing a Compression Garment after Cosmetic Surgery

Wearing a Compression Garment during Recovery after Cosmetic Surgery

Compression garments are clothing items that are made up of stretchable and breathable material that should be worn on the area treated after any kind of surgery. They play a role in speeding your recovery by minimising swelling, limiting excess movement and preventing fluid retention. Compression garments are an important part of post-operative care. Whether you are getting liposuction, breast augmentation, breast reduction surgery, abdominoplasty, or any other kind of cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, wearing a compression garment is essential.

Most cosmetic surgery patients would do anything to feel more comfortable after surgery. A good quality compression garment is designed with this in mind. A good compression garment can promote faster healing and will offer adequate support to your body.

We often get questions regarding compression garments. In this article, we will discuss the importance of wearing your compression garment post-surgery and the benefits of garments.

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with cosmetic clinics in Sydney and Wollongong NSW. He has performed hundreds of body contouring procedures in over 20 years of practice.

Guide to Rapid Recovery

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Importance of Wearing a Compression Garment

The use of a compression garment after any kind of surgical procedure is a crucial part of the recovery. Apart from accelerating the healing process, improving postoperative prognosis, reducing pain, and minimising swelling, they also help stabilise postoperative changes and make the recovery process smooth.

It plays a crucial role in the outcome of the surgery and helps prevent complications such as blood clot formation and poor circulation.

When is a Compression Garment Useful?

The general recommendation is to wear compression garments after the following surgeries: tummy tuck or abdominoplasty, body lift procedures, arm lift, breast surgeries (reduction, breast lift, and augmentation), liposuction, facelift, and neck lift.

 

Benefits of Using a Compression Garment Post Surgery

Following are some of the benefits of wearing a compression garment post-surgery:

· Reduced Bruising

A compression garment will help reduce extreme bruising after any kind of plastic surgery. Any kind of surgical process will cause some level of disruption to the blood vessels which leads to bruising around the surgical site. The post-operative garments will decrease bruising by preventing blood cells from migrating toward the skin.

· Reduced Swelling

The swelling post-surgery is caused by fluid build-up in the tissues of the affected region. By wearing a compression garment, the swelling can be reduced greatly. This is due to the fact that the compression garment puts pressure on the affected area and thereby minimises swelling.

· Prevents Skin Sagging

The compression garments are designed to hold the skin tightly which accelerates the process of healing. Moreover, they offer adequate support to hold your skin in place, thereby preventing lumps and sagging of skin.

· Boosts Blood Circulation

Limited mobility post the surgery can cause improper blood circulation which sometimes leads to the formation of blood clots. These clots are quite dangerous and can prove to be fatal. Wearing a compression garment post-surgery will lead to effective blood circulation and minimise the risk of blood clot formation. Proper circulation helps with wounds healing and reduces the chance of infections.

· Minimises Post-Operative Pains

A compression garment can minimise swelling, promote circulation, and accelerate the recovery process. Once the inflammation is reduced, you might experience less pain. Moreover, the even pressure on the affected site can minimise pain and help you stay comfortable through the recovery phase.

· Improved Contours and Better Results

Your surgical procedure is performed to help you achieve the desired contour. Compression garments play an important role in maintaining the changes and help you achieve an optimal outcome. The use of compression garments is vital for achieving good results.

Timeline for Wearing Compression Garments

Timeline for Wearing Compression Garments

While choosing the right compression garment is of critical importance, understanding the timeline for wearing one is equally critical. Below is the information that will come in handy for your recovery time frame:

1.     The First Stage

The first stage of recovery typically lasts around four weeks post-surgery. And this is the time to wear first stage compression garments. During this timeframe, you will be required to wear a compression garment 24/7 and only take it off when showering. Good quality garments are adjustable and are made with comfortable material that reduces friction and offers comfort. The ultimate goal of first stage garments is to reduce the swelling and bruising.

2.     The Second Stage

Second stage garments are required to be worn when the initial swelling has subsided. This time period typically occurs four weeks after the surgery and Dr Hunt recommends wearing second stage garments for 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the type of surgery. These garments are way more comfortable as compared to the first stage ones. You won’t be required to wear these garments 24/7 and you can take them off at night.

3.     The Third Stage

You will start to see the results of the surgery at this stage. The post-operative swelling significantly subsides within three months. Dr Hunt might recommend wearing third stage compression garments if your swelling hasn’t subsided by now.

Choosing the Right Compression Garment Post Surgery

It is very important to select a high-quality garment after having a thorough discussion with Dr Hunt. The right garment can make the recovery process easier, minimise discomfort, and prevent all sorts of complications. Patients are required to use a compression garment for a minimum of six weeks, following major surgery. In the case of smaller procedures, wearing them for four weeks is enough.

Regardless of the type of surgery, it is important to select the one which is comfortable to wear. Make sure that your compression garment is made with high-quality material that has antibacterial properties. This prevents any kind of bacterial growth on the skin and speeds up the recovery.

Make sure that the material is breathable and can keep the treatment site dry. You don’t want the treated area to be covered with sweat. The garment needs to be stretchable and fit snugly on the treated part of your body. The moisture-wicking properties of the garment keep your skin dry, prevent the spread of bacteria and offer optimum comfort while eliminating any kind of odour. Look out for seamless designs as they prevent any kind of skin irritation. Your compression garment needs to have a zipper, and eye closure as it enables you to get in and out of the compression garment with ease, preventing friction and straining.

Tips to Reduce Swelling Post Surgery

Swelling is your body’s natural response to any kind of trauma caused to the tissues during a surgical procedure. Most of the swelling starts to subside by week two, provided you are following all the instructions given by Dr Hunt. While wearing a compression garment is one of the very important aspects of reducing swelling, here are a few additional aspects to keep in mind:

  • Stay clear of salty foods as they can cause water retention which leads to prolonged swelling
  • Use a cold compress on the treatment site to help constrict the blood vessels and reduce swelling
  • Do not use diuretics as they do not help in removing localised swelling
  • Try keeping the swollen part elevated: it helps to drain excess fluids and can minimise swelling

FAQ’s about Compression Garments after Surgery

Here is a list of frequently asked questions we get regarding compression garments:

What do compression garments do?

  • Compression garments have many benefits: they reduce pain and swelling after the surgery, reduce skin bruising, make the recovery process easier, prevent infections, help maintain the newly achieved contours and improve the results of the surgery while speeding up the healing process.

Can I sleep without my compression garment?

  • It depends on which stage of recovery you are at. During the first stage of recovery, you will need to wear compression garments 24/7 and have to wear them even when sleeping. During this time, you are only allowed to take it off while taking a shower. This phase of recovery lasts for 4 weeks in most cases. Once the initial phase of recovery is over, you can remove the garments before sleeping. Make sure to check in with Dr Hunt before doing so.

WHAT are stage 1 and stage 2 garments?

  • Stage 1 Garments

Stage one garments are supposed to be worn immediately after surgery. They help prevent fluid accumulation along with post-operative bruising. These garments cause the excess fluid to drain away easily. They generally have zippers, hooks and eyes and minimise friction. Based on the nature of your surgery, these garments are needed to be worn for 2 to 4 weeks after the surgery.

  • Stage 2 Garments

Stage two garments are worn during the second phase of recovery. They are to be worn 2 to 4 weeks after the surgery and must be worn for at least four weeks. The second stage garments offer support to the newly contoured body and do not have zippers or eyes and can be easily worn underneath the clothes.

What happens if I don’t wear compression garments after liposuction?

  • Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves the use of a suction technique to eliminate fat from certain parts of the body. The procedure can lead to swelling and sagging skin. The compression garments hold the skin and underlying tissues tightly and minimise the chances of sagging skin and lump formation.

How long should I wear a compression garment after a tummy tuck/ abdominoplasty?

  • A tummy tuck/ abdominoplasty is certainly one of the most complex body contouring procedures. The surgery causes damage to the tissues which can lead to swelling. You have to wear a compression garment for a minimum of eight weeks to speed up the healing process.

Do compression garments help tighten skin?

  • Yes, compression garments help to tighten the skin. They hold the underlying tissues and reduce sagging to get ideal results and prevent loose skin.

How tight should your compression garment be after surgery?

  • The compression garment needs to be snug enough to offer adequate support, and apply even pressure, but shouldn’t be tight enough to lead to discomfort. Regarding sizing, you can discuss this issue with Dr Hunt. If something is causing extreme discomfort, it will do more harm than good.

Can compression garments cause swelling?

  • No, the right compression garment will reduce swelling. However, if you choose a compression garment that is too restrictive or tight for you, it could lead to fluid build-up and increase the risk of lymphedema.

Does compression help with belly fat?

  • No, they don’t help with belly fat. There is no evidence that suggests that a compression garment will result in fat or weight loss. However, they do get rid of excess fluids which can make your belly look smaller and give the illusion of weight loss.

Further Reading about Body Contouring Procedures

Medical References about Compression Garments

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon Sydney

Dr Jeremy Hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing cosmetic and plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is optimal for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and, through his guidance, can achieve good results.

Dr Hunt’s personal, one-on-one service and attention to detail has given thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia the aesthetic results they desire.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast reduction is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.