Liposuction Garment – A Post Surgery Necessity

Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure by which fat is extracted from under the skin from different parts of the body, through small incisions with the help of a hollow stainless steel tube. After the fat is removed, the usual procedure is to leave the incisions open to allow draining of excess liquid and to control edema.

The Liquid Catchers

The portion affected is covered with absorptive pads which capture the drained fluid; these pads are kept in place with the help of a compression liposuction garment. For the liposuction of the face and neck, the liposuction garment needs to be worn for 18-36 hours post operation. The usage of the garment depends upon the place from where the fat has been extracted.

The Liposuction Garment and its Use

A few decades ago, the compression liposuction garment was recommended for use for 2-6 weeks; today however, because of the advanced technology, the usage is for just until the drainage of fluid is complete.

Why is it Needed?

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 certain amount of pressure on the area, which helps drain the blood and anesthetic fluid that accumulates under the skin post surgery. With this method the fluid is drained rapidly and promotes faster healing.

Alternative ways to Drain Fluid Rapidly

Besides using the liposuction garment, there are a few different ways to drain the fluid rapidly. One of the most common ways is to place several adits (tiny holes of about 1.5 mm) in the skin around the liposuction area. Another way is using HK pads on the skin at the sutures level which pulls out and absorbs the fluid; the third most common way is to leave the incision open completely so the fluid drains out.

Additional Bonuses

Rapid drainage is encouraged because it will help to heal faster, reduces pain considerably, and also cuts out the formation of bruising which are very scary during the post-surgery period. The liposuction garment however is quite common and widely recommended since not only it removes the excess fluid by gentle pressure on the spot, but also keeps the place in shape which helps the skin regain its original shape and elasticity. Moreover, the gentle pressure the garment puts on the area feels very soothing and reduces pain and swelling considerably.