Wearing Compression Garments After Facial Plastic Surgery

Posted on May 4, 2021 in Plastic Surgery

During the recovery period after facial plastic surgery, compression garments are sometimes used to aid in proper healing. This applies to procedures like a facelift, where the skin can be separated from underlying muscle or fat and excess tissues are removed. Not all procedures will require compression garments, and Dr. Ransom can explain whether you can expect to wear one after your facial plastic surgery.

Why Should I Wear a Compression Garment After Plastic Surgery?

Compression garments can help you achieve a faster recovery process and maintain the intended contours created after procedures like a facelift or neck liposuction. Following procedures such as liposuction, there can be space between tissues and the overlying skin. A compression garment helps to gently close this space, encouraging tissues to properly heal together in the intended position. Many patients also find that their compression garments result in reduced pain, swelling, bruising, and bleeding throughout their healing process.

Which Facial Plastic Surgery Procedures Require Compression Garments?

Compression garments are typically associated with plastic surgery procedures for the body such as tummy tuck, but some types of facial plastic surgery can benefit from their use as well. These include facelift, neck lift, or neck liposuction. Compression garments are not always recommended depending on the patient’s needs. Dr. Ransom will explain whether or not you will require a compression garment and how long you can expect to wear it after your facelift, neck lift, or neck liposuction.

How Long Will I Need a Compression Garment After My Facelift?

Most patients wear their compression garments for about two weeks after their facelift, neck lift, or neck liposuction procedures. This depends on several factors including the rate at which you heal. Through post-op appointments, Dr. Ransom will monitor your healing progress and advise how often and how long you should be wearing compression garments.

Do I Need to Wear My Compression Garments 24/7 After My Facelift?

Through the healing process, you should wear compression garments as close to 24 hours per day as possible, including while you sleep. After a facelift, neck lift, or neck liposuction, you should sleep with your head elevated while wearing your compression garment as instructed. The compression garment should fit well and apply gentle pressure without being uncomfortable. It is necessary, however, to remove your compression garment while showering. 

What Are Some Signs a Compression Garment is Too Tight?

Your compression garment should be snug and comfortable, but excessive pressure can be detrimental to your healing process. You should feel some gentle pressure, but never so much that it is painful or causes a loss of circulation. The garment should also fit smoothly against your skin; if the fabric bunches or folds, this is a sign that it is too tight. Excessive pressure from your compression garment can cause issues including hyperpigmentation after healing, so it is important to ensure that yours fits correctly. Dr. Ransom can help you adjust the garment properly.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about the healing process after a facelift, neck lift, or neck liposuction, schedule an appointment with Dr. Ransom in San Francisco. Call Ransom/MD contact us online.