Are Compression Garments Necessary After Body Contouring Surgery?
A successful plastic surgery outcome is influenced by a combination of factors — how you prepare for the procedure, your general state of physical and mental health, and what you do during the recovery process. Many patients who undergo body contouring surgeries such as tummy tucks or liposuction ask how they can heal quickly and get optimum results. Wearing compression garments during recovery is crucial in both regards.
What is Body Contouring?
Body contouring refers to a variety of plastic surgery procedures that can tighten loose skin and tone the figure after significant weight loss. After weight loss, people are often left with loose, sagging skin and/or stubborn pockets of fat resistant to diet and exercise. Body contouring procedures include tummy tucks, liposuction, upper or lower body lifts, and more. Dr. Kayastha will help you determine the best procedure or combination of procedures for your specific needs.
Benefits of Wearing Compression Garments During Recovery
A compression garment is a form-fitting undergarment that should be worn immediately after a body-contouring procedure. Compression garments are worn to promote quicker healing and to help the skin and muscles to adhere to their contours. Compression garments:
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- Reduce bruising and swelling by promoting consistent fluid distribution
- Reduce the risk of infection by keeping the surgical site sterile
- Promote quicker healing and reduced incidence of hematomas and seromas by increasing blood circulation
- Promote proper and even skin adhesion
How Long Should I Wear Compression Garments?
The length of time required to wear compression garments after a body contouring procedure depends on the type of procedure and how the plastic surgeon seals the incisions. Compression garments are typically worn for two to six weeks following liposuction or a tummy tuck.
It is important to note that ill-fitting compression garments may do more harm than good and increase one’s chances of seromas, uneven skin composition, scarring, and tissue necrosis (death). So, choosing compression garments with the proper fit should be a priority.
Planning for Your Body Contouring Surgery
If you have been contemplating undergoing a body contouring procedure, let us help you out! Our unique approach to body contouring procedures is to do more than just remove excess skin and fat, but rather to create a body contour that is natural-looking and aesthetically balanced.
Call our office or fill out this contact form today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kayastha, a board-certified plastic surgeon located in Albany, NY.
Dr. Kayastha is a board certified plastic surgeon who serves Albany, NY and the entire Capital Region. Dr. Kayastha completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University and graduated with distinction in all subjects. He then attended medical school at SUNY Buffalo. During his time in Buffalo he also completed a fellowship in surgical pathology at Roswell Park. Following medical school Dr. Kayastha gained a much sought after position in the Michigan State-Grand Rapids integrated plastic surgery residency. After finishing residency training Dr. Kayastha completed a one year fellowship in hand and microsurgery at the Buncke Clinic in San Francisco. To round out his training before starting private practice Dr. Kayastha spent an additional 6 months learning from some of the best cosmetic surgeons in San Francisco. Dr. Kayastha is Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.