Abdominal Binder by ContourMD

With swimsuit season in full swing, you may be considering liposuction to get rid of those unsightly bumps and bulges. But should you go with a laser liposuction procedure or a traditional liposuction procedure? You may be tempted to choose laser liposuction over traditional liposuction because it’s less expensive and recovery time is quicker, but before you make such a big decision, it’s important to know the facts.

Laser liposuction, also known as Smart Lipo, or laser-assisted lypolysis, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that melts away fat through the use of lasers. During laser liposuction, tiny incisions are made in the skin through which a laser is inserted. When the laser is fired, it melts fat and tightens the surrounding skin.

But unlike traditional liposuction, laser liposuction is not intended to be used on large areas like the stomach or hips. It is, however, useful for people who want to have small pockets of fat in the face, neck, arms, or breasts removed.

Before scheduling your liposuction procedure, consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to determine which type of liposuction is best for you.

Once you have decided which liposuction technique meets your requirements, you will need to prepare for your liposuction recovery. This will include the purchase of a liposuction compression garment. If you are undergoing traditional liposuction, you will need an abdominal binder, girdle, or body shaper.

For laser-assisted lipolysis, the type of recovery garment you need will depend on the area being treated. For liposuction of the breast or arm, you will want to purchase a compression vest, or a post-surgical bra. For liposuction of the face and neck, a facial compression wrap is the compression garment of choice.

Second Stage Garments by ContourMD

If you are planning a plastic surgery procedure, you’ll need to invest in a compression garment. Compression garments, also known as plastic surgery recovery garments or post-surgical garments, improve circulation, help rid the body of potentially harmful fluids, reduce swelling, and decrease plastic surgery recovery time.

Immediately after your surgery, you’ll need a first stage recovery garment. The type of compression garment you need will depend on your type of surgery. If you are undergoing a breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast reconstruction, breast lift, or arm lift, you’ll need a compression vest or a post-surgical bra. For liposuction or a tummy tuck, you’ll want to purchase an abdominal binder, a compression girdle, or a body shaper. Facial compression wraps are recommended for facelift surgery.

A few weeks after your plastic surgery, your plastic surgeon may tell you to switch to a second stage compression garment. Second stage recovery garments are less bulky than first stage recovery garments. But don’t let the lightweight material fool you. Second stage recovery garments still provide compression, which increases circulation and helps the body heal.

Because second stage recovery garments are less restrictive than first stage compression garments, they can easily be worn undetected underneath everyday clothing. Second stage recovery garments come in a variety of styles. Mid-thigh girdles and mid-calf girdles fit well under shorts, capris, or skirts. Since they are lightweight, they are a good choice during the hot summer. Ankle body garments may be more comfortable under slacks and can add an extra layer of warmth during the cold winter months.

Whether you need a first stage compression garment or a second stage recovery garment, keep in mind that plastic surgery recovery can last several weeks, so it a good idea to have more than one post-surgical recovery garment on hand.