Compression garments

What the garment actually does

A compression garment is not simply "tight clothing." Its purpose is to hold the tissue layers separated during surgery close together, reduce the space where edema could accumulate, and help the skin settle onto its new contour. That is why the first selection criterion is not size but complete coverage of the zone: every centimeter of the liposuction area left uncovered may miss out on the intended effect.

Practical selection

The table below shows the principles most commonly applied across the LIPOELASTIC® range. The final word always belongs to the operating surgeon — some techniques may require a specific zone selection or a different wear time.

What to pay attention to

• Closure type: zipper, hook-and-eye, or sewn closed. In the early period the garment must be easy to put on — keep in mind that bending over may be temporarily prohibited or difficult for the patient.
• Seams: flat-lock seams leave no marks on the skin; in any case, a coarse seam must not lie over the scar.
• Padding: over uneven areas (for example, after abdominoplasty) additional panels help equalize the pressure.
• A second set: the garment is worn almost around the clock — a second set becomes a practical necessity for washing.

Stage one

Starting from the first days, the garment is worn almost continuously for roughly 2–4 weeks, removed only for showering. The goal in this period is to limit the buildup of edema, keep the tissue layers close together, and provide comfort during movement. The garment should be easy to put on, and the patient should be able to fasten it without help.

Stage two

Once the edema subsides, the first garment may start to feel too big — a sign that the size has changed. In the second stage it makes sense to switch to a lighter garment or a smaller size, while wear time is gradually reduced (for example, daytime-only wear may be advised). The overall duration usually ranges from 6 to 12 weeks and is determined by the surgeon's prescription.

The scientific context — an honest picture

The literature discusses a range of 17–20 mm Hg as the typical target pressure; the appropriate pressure, however, depends on the type of surgery, the neurovascular status, and the physician's prescription. The practical takeaway: the garment must be the right size — the "the tighter, the better" approach is wrong and can be harmful.

When to contact a physician

Nə vaxt həkimə müraciət etmək

• Barmaqlarda və ya ayaqlarda keyimə, soyuqluq, rəng dəyişikliyi
• Geyimin kənarında dərin iz, ağrı və ya dəri zədəsi
• Kəskin artan şişkinlik, qızartı, hərarət

How to measure

• Waist — measure at the narrowest point of the waist (slightly above the navel). The tape should sit snugly against the body without squeezing: if a finger barely fits under the tape, you have pulled it too tight.
• Hips — measure the hips at their widest point, with the legs held together.
• Underbust and bust — for bra-style garments, measure across the fullest line of the bust and directly under the bust.
• Thigh — for legging- and shorts-style garments, measure the thigh at its widest point: this is the upper thigh (near the groin line), not directly above the knee.

Measurements are taken before surgery: after the procedure, edema temporarily changes your dimensions, and a garment bought to those numbers may end up too big once the swelling resolves.

If you fall between two sizes

If the size chart puts you between two sizes, the general rule — especially for stage one — is to choose the larger size. The smaller size does not deliver stronger compression; it merely creates focal pressure at the edges and marks on the skin, and it is also harder to put on.

When the size should change

As the edema subsides, the garment loosens. If the garment no longer grips the body or its edges pucker, it has lost its compression function — it is time to move down one size for the second stage. This usually happens around weeks 3–6.

The platform carries the LIPOELASTIC® range in sizes from XS to 5XL; models and sizes not in stock are brought in made to order within 1–2 months. If you need help choosing a size, write to us.

Lipedema is a chronic, symmetric, and painful buildup of subcutaneous fat tissue; it occurs mainly in women and is associated with hormonal transitions (puberty, pregnancy, menopause). The features that distinguish it from ordinary obesity: symmetry, pain and tenderness to touch, easy bruising, and a virtually complete lack of response to dieting. Characteristically, the feet are spared — a sharp border is visible at the ankle.

The role of compression

In the conservative management of lipedema, compression therapy, exercise, and manual lymphatic drainage are applied together. The goals of compression are to keep the edema from progressing, to reduce the sensations of heaviness and pain, and to support the tissue during movement. It does not "cure" the disease, but it has a direct impact on day-to-day quality of life.

Choosing the garment

• The compression zone must cover the entire area affected by the disease (usually waist–thigh–calf).
• The edges should sit without digging sharply into the tissue; in lipedema the skin is sensitive, and a pressure mark can cause lasting discomfort.
• The garment is intended for daily wear — breathable fabric and correct sizing are critical.
• If liposuction is planned, the post-surgical compression is selected separately and determined by the surgeon's protocol.

The LIPOELASTIC® range includes a dedicated garment line for lipedema; you can find it in the catalog using the "Lipedema garments" filter. The diagnosis and treatment plan are always determined by a physician — this article is for information purposes only.

Silicone is the most-researched non-invasive option in scar care. It creates a moist micro-environment over the scar, reduces water loss, and promotes a more orderly arrangement of collagen. International recommendations list it as a first-line measure for the prevention of hypertrophic and keloid scars.

When to start

Only after the wound has fully closed — usually 2–3 weeks after suture removal. Silicone is not applied to an open or crusted wound.

How long to continue

At least 12 hours a day, for 2–3 months; longer for thick or hypertrophic scars. Results appear gradually — the first change is usually noticeable after 4–6 weeks. Interruptions reduce the effect: consistency is decisive here.

Sheet or gel?

Sheets are more convenient for flat, broad areas (for example, an abdominoplasty scar); gel suits the face, neck, and mobile areas — it is invisible under clothing and dries quickly. Both work by the same mechanism; the choice comes down to location and everyday convenience.

Additional notes

• Protect a fresh scar from the sun — UV rays cause hyperpigmentation (SPF 50 for at least 6–12 months).
• Tension widens a scar: in mobile areas, compression or taping support is helpful.
• If redness, itching, or thickening increases, see your surgeon — early intervention is more effective.