Why do we use compression garments?
In the journey towards a successful recovery after cosmetic surgery, apart from sun protection for the scars, one item stands out: the compression garment. These seemingly simple yet crucial garments play a pivotal role in ensuring safe and swift healing. Despite their commonality in surgical aftercare, questions and uncertainties often surround these garments. In this blog, you will explore the effects of compression garments, learning their significance in promoting a seamless recovery and achieving optimal results.
What is a compression garment?
Compression garments are crafted from durable materials like nylon, elastan, polyamid, and polyurethane, and are often indispensable in the postoperative phase. Tailored to various procedures, they offer comfort while aiding in the healing process. These garments come in a plethora of sizes, styles, and types, catering to every conceivable part of the body and surgical intervention. Designed with practicality in mind, some compression garments feature strategic openings, facilitating bathroom use without necessitating removal.
How long should you wear your compression garments?
I will advise you on the individual duration and frequency of wearing your compression garment, typically ranging from two to six weeks post-surgery, depending on factors like the procedure type and individual recovery pace. Initially, you’ll likely wear the garment day and night, except during showers, for the first two weeks. Following this period, the schedule may transition to wearing the garment for the next three to six weeks during daytime. While it’s important to maintain hygiene, including washing the garments, strive for consistent wear to optimize your recovery outcomes.
What are the benefits of compression garments?
Reduced swelling and better blood circulation
The compression garment plays a dual role in reducing postoperative swelling and promoting blood circulation. By applying even pressure to the surgical site, they reduce swelling and encourage the body to reabsorb excess fluid, speeding up the healing process. In addition, the gentle but even pressure promotes better blood circulation, which allows for better oxygen and nutrient supply to the healing tissue. The improved blood circulation also promotes the removal of metabolic waste, which further supports tissue recovery and reduces discomfort.
Better surgical results and a lower risk of complications
Postoperative compression garments make a significant contribution to achieving an optimal surgical result while reducing the risk of complications. They particularly help in contouring the body after the procedure, especially after liposuction or tummy tuck, by supporting the operated tissue. This support allows the tissue to settle into its new shape, resulting in a better aesthetic result. Because compression garments improve blood flow, they also reduce the risk of complications such as blood clots – if worn correctly and not constricting – contributing to an overall smoother and safer recovery process.
Comfort, support and reduced scarring
Aside from their therapeutic benefits, compression garments provide comfort and support during the healing period, especially after invasive procedures such as breast surgery or body lifting. The garments are elastic and have different resistance depending on the type to support the tissue while protecting the surgical site. Although they cannot prevent scarring, compression garments help reduce excessive scarring by applying even pressure to the wound. This pressure promotes the gradual flattening of the scars, resulting in less noticeable and aesthetically pleasing results for you. I value personal choice and offer you compression garments from all leading brands.