Liposuction Compression Garments

Liposuction is the cosmetic procedure whereby fat is extracted (removed) from beneath the skin from various areas of the body, via a small incision with the help of a hollow stainless steel tube. Once the fat has been removed, the usual procedure is to leave the incision open to allow excess fluid and blood to be drained from the wound, and also to control edema.

To assist in the healing process the area of the wound is covered with absorption pads that capture the drained fluid; these pads are held in place with the help of a liposuction compression garment. When liposuction has been performed on the face or neck the liposuction compression garment should be worn for 18–36 hours after the operation. The use of a compression garment depends on the area of the body that the fat has been extracted from.

Using A Liposuction Compression Garment

Previously it was recommended that the compression liposuction garment was used for two to six weeks; nowadays, however, because of advances in technology, usage of compression garments is only necessary until draining is complete.

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The liposuction garment is mostly recommended for ensuring that there is no unnecessary swelling or fluid retention and the area heals uniformly. The garment actually has a moderate to high elasticity which applies a degree of pressure to the area, thereby assisting in draining the blood and fluid that accumulates under the skin post surgery. When wearing a compression garment the fluid drains rapidly which promotes faster healing.

Other Ways to Rapidly Drain Fluid

Apart from wearing a liposuction garment, there are a few other methods to help drain the fluid quickly. One common way is to place several adits (tiny holes about 1.5 mm in diameter) in the skin around the liposuction area. Another way is using HK pads on the skin at the suture level which draws out and absorbs the fluid; the third common method is to leave the incision open completely so the fluid drains out.

Rapid drainage is encouraged because it will help to heal the site of the wound faster, reduce pain considerably, and also lessen the formation of bruising which regularly occurs during the post-operative period. A liposuction garment however is quite common and widely recommended since it not only helps drain the excess fluid by gentle pressure, but also helps the skin regain its original shape much faster than might otherwise occur. The gentle pressure applied by the garment to the area of the wound should feel comfortable and it should reduce pain and swelling considerably.