Director of Cosmetic Surgery,

University of Illinois Chicago

Department  of Dermatology

Oakbrook Center Mall

Oak Brook, Illinois

(630) 928-0240

Jeffrey  Melton, M.D., S.C.,

link to us

drmelton.com

Compression garments

A compression garment is usually put on right after the liposuction procedure.  These garments are kind of like support hose for the area treated.  Compression garments help to reduce the swelling and lend support. 

There are different kinds of compression garments; some are very tight and confining, some are much less so.  The trend over the past several years is toward less tightness in garments.  We prefer compression garments which are not extremely tight. 

Because they lend support, patients actually find it more comfortable to wear the garments for the first several days than to go without them.  The garments we use could  reasonably be described as a leotard or aerobics suit one size too small. 

There really isn't any good evidence that compression garments are helpful after the first week or so (at least not with the new liposuction); so at that point their use depends on whether you are more comfortable with or without them. 

Prior to tumescent liposuction very tight compression garments were prescribed for 6 weeks or more.  Because of decreased tissue trauma with the tumescent technique, prolonged use and/or tight garments are no longer necessary.

Compression garments fit into the clothing scheme like long underwear would, underneath your regular clothing.  For the first few days, you will probably want to wear somewhat loose-fitting clothing over the garment.  Dark colored sweats work particularly well, though you are not limited to these.

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