When Should You First Wear a Compression Garment After Surgery?

When to start wearing a compression garment depends on the procedure and your surgeon's care plan. Learn what to check when using it for the first time.

What Determines When to Start?

The right time to start wearing a compression garment varies between patients. The procedure, treatment area, swelling and the surgeon's follow-up plan can all influence the timing.

Some patients may start wearing a compression garment immediately after surgery, while others may be advised to start later. Having your garment ready beforehand can be helpful, but follow your surgeon's advice on when to begin using it.

What Should You Check When First Wearing the Garment?

When first putting on the garment, make sure it sits correctly on your body. Check that the fabric is not folded, zips or hooks are not pinching the skin, and the garment fits evenly around the treated area.

Swelling in the first few days may change how the garment feels as recovery progresses. Monitor these changes rather than judging the fit only by how it feels on the first day.

Follow Your Doctor's Advice

A compression garment is one part of postoperative care. The starting time, daily wear time and overall duration may vary by procedure, so your surgeon's individual advice takes priority.