While the plastic surgery journey is multifaceted, recovery is the most paramount aspect. That’s where your body heals, your incision scars fade, and you begin to see exciting results.
After many surgical procedures, you can expect to wear a specially designed compression garment to support your new contours, help your incisions mend, and ensure the outcome meets your realistic expectations.
Compression Garment Benefits
Dr. Landis often recommends or requires his patients to wear a compression garment after plastic surgery. There are many benefits to doing so, including:
– Reduces swelling
– Keeps tissue compacted to lower the risk of bruising and bleeding
– Helps with the healing process without interfering with circulation
– Supports your new contours
– Minimizes discomfort
How Long Should You Wear a Compression Garment?
Here’s what you should know about compression garments and what you can expect from Dr. Landis. For at least the first two weeks after your surgery, we recommend wearing your compression garment 24 hours a day, except when bathing. After three to six weeks, Dr. Landis might clear you to reduce your time spent wearing the garment to only half a day. However, these directives will depend on how your recovery is progressing and the extent of your healing.
How Tight Should Compression Garments Be?
Your compression garment should fully support the treatment site with gentle to moderate pressure. It should sit flat across your skin without bunching up, but it should be comfortable. Too much pressure could hinder circulation or cause fluid buildup. In addition, your compression garment should have enough give to allow you to slide your hand under the material, and it should not cause your limbs to go numb.
Are Compression Garments Suitable for Sleep?
Dr. Landis recommends you wear your surgical garment around the clock for the first two weeks, including while sleeping. After he clears you to reduce that time to half-days, you can determine when you prefer wearing it – day or night.
What’s the Best Way to Conceal Your Compression Garment?
Once you feel well enough to go back out in public, it’s normal to feel self-conscious about people noticing your compression wear. Here are a few tips for concealing it:
– Choose a nude shade.
– Wear outer clothing with a thicker fabric.
– Accessorize with outerwear.
– Wear loose, layered outfits.
Is It Safe to Take a Break From Wearing Compression Garments?
Compression garments should be on your body much as possible in the first weeks, but removing them for brief periods to shower or bathe is acceptable. When your compression garment is off, please avoid strenuous activities or lifting more than five pounds.
Learn More About Plastic Surgery and Recovery
If you’re looking for a board-certified plastic surgeon in the Minneapolis-St. Paul region, Dr. Landis is here for you. In addition to his experience as a physician and surgeon, he has also contributed his knowledge to the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery by authoring papers, lecturing at conferences, and serving on committees of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
To partner with a leader at the top of a demanding field, call (952) 562-5940 to schedule a consultation today.