The Important Role of Compression Garments following Plastic Surgery
The subtle alterations made during plastic surgery procedures, such as liposuction, which eliminates stubborn fat deposits, can dramatically enhance a patient’s physical features, improving the patient’s appearance and self-confidence. In order to ensure that patients get their desired results from surgery, Dr. Stephen Hardy knows that it is important to set patients up for a successful surgical recovery that is free of complications. Adhering to post-surgical care instructions is the best way for patients to ensure that recovery will be a success. In many cases, this post-surgical care will involve the use of compression garments. Dr. Hardy provides his Missoula patients with compression garments after plastic surgery because they are helpful in reducing swelling and aid in the healing process.
When Are Compression Garments Used?
Compression garments are likely to be used during recovery from the following plastic surgery procedures:
- Breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction
- Liposuction
- Tummy tuck
- Arm lift
- Butt lift
- Thigh lift
- Body lift
- Face lift
Compression garments are usually worn immediately after surgery is complete, and should continue to be worn through the beginning stages of recovery. While instructions will vary based on the type of procedure that was performed, it may be recommended that compression garments be worn for up to six weeks after plastic surgery.
Why Are Compression Garments Important?
Compression garments are an important part of recovery from plastic surgery. These garments help to ensure a faster and safer recovery from surgery, and can also help patients avoid surgical complications that may develop during the healing process. Compression garments aid healing in the following ways:
- Compression garments promote blood circulation
- Compression garments help to minimize swelling
- Compression garments help to rid the body of potentially harmful fluids
- Compression garments encourage the skin to conform to its new contours
- Compression garments help patients to feel more comfortable throughout recovery
- Compression garments allow patients to return to their routines and physical activities faster
Wearing Compression Garments in Public
Prior to surgery, many patients voice concerns over the length of time that compression garments are worn and how noticeable they will be in public. However, patients should understand that, with the exception of face lift compression garments (which are typically only worn for one to two weeks), compression garments fit easily beneath clothing. This means that, although compression garments may be needed for six weeks after surgery, that does not mean the patient needs to hide at home for the duration of those six weeks. Compression garments fit closely to the body and are discreetly worn beneath a patient’s outerwear, allowing patients to comfortably return to their usual routines as soon as they feel up to it.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are considering plastic surgery to enhance your natural beauty, choose a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon such as Stephen Hardy. Dr. Hardy and his staff at North West Plastic Surgery Associates work closely with patients to ensure satisfaction throughout surgery and recovery. Schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience to learn more about our cosmetic services. We look forward to hearing from you!