We always recommend compression garments for our clients after liposuction. It’s good to have at least two sets of garments, so that there will always be one clean garment to change into each day. Wear them continuously, 24/7, for the first two weeks, except to shower. We know our clients in Hilo and the rest of the Hawaiian Islands may not be used to or fond of wearing compression type clothing but it’s incredibly important to have some form of compression following liposuction. Compression garments are important post-liposuction for three main reasons:
- Compression restricts the amount of swelling that forms and helps it to go down quicker by mechanical pressure
- Compression decreases the amount of bruising
- Compression assists the loose skin in retracting or shrinking
We’ve found that that the commercially-available medical compression garments are easier to put on during the early stage of the recovery process, and provide stronger support and compression than retail items like Spanx or other non-medical garments. Occasionally, clients will also apply an additional layer of Topifoam compression inside the garments, which would not be as effective with Spanx or control top pantyhose.
During weeks 2-4 post liposuction, we advise wearing the garments for just about 12 hours a day, at their leisure. After four weeks, the patients can wear Spanx, control top pantyhose, or no compression, but a lot of our clients from Hilo and elsewhere actually report that they feel “insecure” without the support garments, and will often continue to wear them for several months after having liposuction.
We always provide, free of charge, a compression garment which we put on you in the operating room after the liposuction is complete. To be effective the garment should fit snug but not too tight as to cause pressure problems, difficulty breathing, or problems with sleeping. As the swelling starts to dissipate, it is common for clients to switch to a smaller garment that fits better.
To learn more about liposuction in Honolulu, schedule a consultation today!
