After some surgical procedures, particularly cosmetic and abdominal surgery, patients are often advised to wear a compression garment for a period of time. These garments, sometimes called post-operative garments, body shapers or abdominal binders, apply firm, even pressure to the treated area. If you are preparing for surgery, it helps to understand what is available before you buy.
Start with your surgical team
Your surgeon or nursing team should always be your first point of reference. They will tell you whether you need a garment, which type, how firm it should be, when to start, how many hours a day to wear it and for how long. Many clinics provide or recommend a specific garment. Never use a garment against their advice, and contact them if you have concerns after your operation.
Common types of post-surgery compression garment
- Abdominal binders: wide elastic bands that wrap around the abdomen and fasten at the front, commonly used after abdominal procedures.
- Full-body garments: cover the torso and sometimes the thighs, often with zip or hook fastenings and an opening for using the toilet.
- Vests and chest garments: designed for the upper body and chest area.
- Thigh and leg garments: cover the lower body.
- Chin and face straps: used after some facial procedures.
Features to look for
- Easy fastenings: side zips or front hooks make the garment easier to put on when movement is limited.
- Adjustability: hook-and-eye rows let you adjust as swelling changes.
- Soft, breathable fabric and flat seams to reduce rubbing on sensitive skin.
- Practical openings so you do not need to remove the garment every time you use the toilet.
Getting the size right
Follow the manufacturer’s size chart and any instructions from your clinic. Some people are advised to have more than one size, as swelling usually reduces over the weeks after surgery. A garment should feel firm and even, without folds, rolling edges or areas that dig in.
Putting on and wearing a garment
- Ask someone to help, especially in the first days after surgery.
- Open all fastenings fully and step in or wrap the garment around you as instructed.
- Fasten from the bottom upwards, smoothing out wrinkles as you go.
- Check that you can breathe comfortably and that nothing presses on wounds or drains in a way your team has not approved.
Looking after your skin
- Check your skin for redness, blisters or pressure marks when you change or wash the garment.
- Keep the garment clean; having two to alternate can help.
- Wash according to the care instructions and air dry.
When to contact your clinic
Contact your surgical team or seek urgent help if you notice increasing pain, redness or heat, discharge from a wound, a high temperature, swelling or pain in one leg, shortness of breath or chest pain, or numbness or colour changes in your skin.
Frequently asked questions
How long will I need to wear a compression garment?
It varies by procedure and surgeon. Follow the plan you are given.
Can I use a waist trainer instead?
Fashion shapewear and waist trainers are not designed for post-surgical use. Ask your surgeon before using anything other than the recommended garment.
Related guides
Read our beginner’s guide to compression stockings and browse Venollo orthopaedic supports.
This article is general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you have an injury, a health condition or ongoing symptoms, please speak to a qualified healthcare professional.
