What are the benefits of foam compression after liposuction?

In the UK there is a wide variation in the level of aftercare following liposuction, ranging from simple compression strapping for a couple of weeks, to 12 weeks of compression suits with foam padding as well, together with regular manual lymphatic drainage sessions.

I believe strongly in the benefits of well fitted compression suits for at least 3 weeks 24/7, then for 3 week 12 hours a day for regular VASER Lipo. After more sculpting procedures such as VASER 4D, I would add in extra foam padding as well as increasing the during of compression suits to 8 weeks instead of 6.

The whole aim of liposuction aftercare is to reduce swelling and therefore pain, and also improve the final cosmetic result. Foam padding significantly reduces pain and is very useful if a lot of swelling is anticipated, or, the compression garments cause creases in the skin.

Patients aren't really pleased about it when I instruct foam padding but, it is in their interests and they appreciate it after a couple of days, especially when they see the improved results.

I tend to advise foam padding for the whole torso with all Vaser 4D procedures. I also advise foam padded belts for treating lower abdomens and flanks. But at Riverbanks we have various sizes of padding to fit the area we wish to provide additional compression to.

5 Reasons why it is important to wear compression garments after Vaser Lipo

Vaser Compression Garment

This is probably what people dread the most about any liposuction procedure as they fear the discomfort and constant reminder that they have had surgery. However, if high quality garments are used, it does not need to be such an ordeal as good garments are actually quite supportive and comfortable. Below are 5 reasons why it is such an important step in your care plan:

1. Following liposuction, a potential space has been created in the layers between your skin and your muscles as most of the fat has been removed. This space needs to be constantly compressed in the first few weeks post surgery, in order to prevent collections of fluids such as blood (which could cause a haematoma), inflammatory fluid (which could cause a seroma) or infection.

2. On top of that, good compression garments assists the body's natural lymphatic system, flush away any excess inflammatory fluids from the would sites.

3. The compression ensures that the skin wound edges are closed and so improves the appearance of the scars.

4. The compression helps the skin 'stick' back down to the deeper layers, enhancing the skin retraction and final appearance of your new body.

5. The garments actually make you look slimmer!

What about the compression padding?

4D Vest by Marena

For more extensive liposuction cases such as after treating abdomens or following Vaser Hi Def/4D Sculpt, your surgeon may recommend the addition of a compression foam padding vest to wear UNDER your compression garment for 4 weeks. This is to apply even, consistent pressure around your torso which helps prevent complications such as seroma and also enhances the contour of your new body.

It is a good idea to order at least 2 complete sets of compression hosiery and padding and maybe 3 sets. You may also need a second stage set to use after 3 weeks when most of your swelling has reduced and so your initial garments become too loose.

What are the common complaints with compression garments?

a) It needs 2 people to get them on in the first few days.
b) It can be so tight I can't breathe properly (this is too tight and you should get a bigger size)
c) They have shrunk after washing - only hand wash in cool water and do NOT tumble dry!
d) Its so hot!
e) between weeks 3-6, your skin starts to get its sensation back and this lends itself to experience intense itching! This is very frustrating, but its all a good sign that you are healing well!

So whats a typical timetable for wearing compression garments?

Vaser Lipo - wear the garments for 3 weeks 24/7, then another 3 weeks 12/7
Vaser Hi Def / 4D Sculpt - wear the garments with the foam vest 24/7 for 4 weeks, then just the garments 24/7 for another 4 weeks.

Where can I get compression garments from?
We have used Marena, Macom & Holistic Garments following Vaser. Following his very own 4D Sculpt procedure, Dr Jain used garments from Marena.

If you would like more information about Vaser Lipo at Riverbanks Clinic,
please call 01582 762877 or fill out the form below.