What is a Compression Garment?

This week, Dr. James Craigie of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your questions. Q:I’ve been told I might need to wear a “compression garment” after Stage 2 of my DIEP.  What exactly is that, where do I purchase it, and how long do I have to wear it.  Does everyone need to have one?A:A compression garment is worn after body contouring to support the swollen area of the body. It is a tight fitting elastic type of under garment. Not everyone will need one. It depends on whether liposuction or fat grafting is performed. Usually it is placed on in the operating room after surgery when needed. DIEP and GAP patients may need them and they are typically provided by the hospital.  They are worn after surgery until the swelling is gone, usually around 3 weeks or more. They should be worn all the time at first and less later. Dr. James Craigie Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction

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