Typically, when you schedule a plastic surgery procedure, your physician provides preoperative instructions. It is important that you follow these instructions to get the desired results and avoid complications. Patients in Texas and across the country rely on these guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery. One key recommendation that often stands out is the use of compression garments.
One of the most critical aspects of a procedure is to ensure that you wear proper compression garments. Experts at North Texas Plastic Surgery emphasize that compression garments are essential to ensuring you have a smooth recovery and satisfactory outcome of the surgery. This article explains five reasons why you must follow your physician’s compression garment instructions.
- Reduction of Swelling
Swelling and other related discomfort are part of the post-operative complications in plastic surgeries; a compression garment can help minimize them. The garment will maintain constant pressure on the surgical site, thus preventing excess buildup of subcutaneous fluid. The compression garment will also encourage your body to reabsorb whatever fluid accumulates after the surgery.
Reducing swelling is vital to recovery; the less the swelling, the faster the recovery process. The faster your body recovers, the quicker you see your desired results. Most patients notice a visible reduction in swelling within the first few weeks of consistent garment use.
- More Comfort
Compression garments are typically made using nylon and elastic, which allows them to stretch and support body tissues. As a result, the healing and recovery process is not only faster but also more comfortable and protects the surgical site. The gentle pressure also helps reduce the sensation of tenderness in the treated area.
When you get your compression garment, ensure it is the right size and fits snugly. It is not the right size if it feels so tight that you cannot breathe or if you generally feel uncomfortable. If you feel discomfort or pain while wearing your custom-fit compression garment, let your plastic surgeon know. They can recommend adjustments or a different size to ensure proper fit.
- Less Scarring
One of the biggest factors in how a person scars after plastic surgery is the tension that is placed on the wound. By externally reducing swelling and tension on the wound, compression garments can help improve scarring. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), proper wound care and pressure management play a significant role in minimizing scar formation. This is why surgeons strongly recommend wearing compression garments as directed.
- Minimized Bruising
Surgical procedures come with risks and side effects, namely the disruption of blood vessels. This can result in the rupture of blood vessels, in which blood starts to leak into the surrounding tissue. That is why some people who undergo a surgical procedure experience bruising, particularly around the surgical site.
Although this is a normal side effect, you can reduce the chances of it happening with compression garments. They will prevent blood cells from moving towards the skin’s surface. As a result, there will be less bruising post-surgery. Many patients notice a significant difference when they wear their garments consistently.
- Lowered Risk of Infection
Rest is typically recommended after any surgical procedure, as the body needs it to heal properly. However, it also means there is limited mobility, which means the patient may experience poor circulation, causing the development of blood clots.
Compression garments are therefore important because they help promote circulation and rapid wound healing. As a result, there is a lowered risk of blood clots and infection, provided the compression garment is always clean. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions on how often to wash and change your garment.
Conclusion
“Compression garments make post-op recovery effective, reducing the complications and risks associated with plastic surgeries,” says Dr. Sacha Obaid, founder of North Texas Plastic Surgery. Always be sure to follow your doctor’s orders and ask questions if there is any confusion.
While a powerful tool for achieving the best results possible post-surgery, the effectiveness of your compression garment hinges on your ability to maintain the garment and follow your doctor’s orders. The best way to ensure your best results with your compression garments is to speak with your doctors and maintain an open line of communication.
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