Binder after tummy tuck

After tummy tuck there will be a significant amount of swelling so I recommend using two items, an Abdominal Binder and a Compression Garment.

The Abdominal binder should be used for two weeks post surgery and the Compression garment should be used for 6 weeks following the binder.

The difference between the two is the abdominal binder is more of a tight thick band that uses Velcro at the side and securely holds the drains in place, while the Compression garment is more comfortable and form fitting. After the initial recovery time, there may be times when to feel a little more swollen than usual.

This is normal and it may feel better to wear the Compression garment for a little while. Be sure to follow up with your plastic surgeon if you have any other questions or concerns. (Shain A. Cuber, MD, Edison Plastic Surgeon)

Compression after tummy tuck

Binder after abdominoplasty

Patients usually wear the girdle for at least a month and, when the swelling goes down, they move on to lighter compression such as Spanx or a body shaper. After the initial recovery period, you should wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable and enhances your appearance. (Robert L. Kraft, MD, New York Plastic Surgeon)

How Long Does the Average Patient Wear Their Girdle After a Tummy Tuck?

I usually have my patients wear their postoperative compression girdle for about 5 weeks, then tell them they may find it helpful to wear a lighter weight compression garment such as a Spanx for a few more weeks.

Binder after tummy tuck gallery

This latter garment is not required, but they may find better control of postoperative swelling as they are up during the day if they wear a light compression until they no longer find it helpful, maybe a few weeks. (Robert M. Grenley, MD, Seattle Plastic Surgeon)

Compression device (abd binder) is usually worn about 4 weeks

The time that an abdominal binder is worn after a tummy tuck depends on each patient and surgeon. Usually this is about 4 weeks. Often, at this time, it is discontinued in the day and still worn at night for comfort. Some circumstances such as seroma pocket may require longer and more diligent use. (Remus Repta, MD, Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon)

Binder after tummy tuck photo

How long should you wear garments after tummy tuck

This differs from surgeon to surgeon. I have my patients wear a compression garment for 6 weeks. Each week the patient can get out of the garment for 1 additional hour a day. (Christian Prada, MD, FACS, Saint Louis Plastic Surgeon)

Most patients will wear surgical garments for about four weeks after tummy tuck surgery. There is no evidence that wearing a garment any longer than this will give you a better outcome. Some patients prefer to wear them longer because they like the comfort and support they provide-especially when they begin exercising again. Each plastic surgeon has his or her own protocol so ask your plastic surgeon for specific guidelines. (William Bruno, MD, Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon)

Binder after tummy tuck photo

With this huge range of answers, the only conclusion that can be drawn is that there is no absolute answer to this question. I generally have my patients stay in a mildly-compressive binder for the first three weeks or so. After a few days, they can take it off daily for a shower and by 3 weeks they are often in a garment such as Spanx or something comparable.

Interestingly, I find that my patients prefer to maintain some degree of compression and skin support even longer than I normally recommend it – it seems to “support” the skin and is more comfortable for them. So – a binder of some kind for 1-3 weeks, and then into something more flexible but still with some compression and support. (Alan M. Engler, MD, FACS, New York Plastic Surgeon)

Garment reduced swelling after a tummy tuck

Wearing of an abdominal garment or binder helps to keep swelling down after a tummy tuck. Most surgeons have their patients wear some sort of supporting garment on their abdomen for 4-6 weeks after surgery. I recommend wearing it for a month and then for another week just at night. After a couple of weeks, it is OK to switch to something like Spanx. (James McMahan, MD, Columbus Plastic Surgeon)