Tummy Tuck Recovery
Compression garments
for abdominoplasty recovery
Wearing the right compression garment after a tummy tuck is one of the most important steps you can take for a smooth recovery. Compression reduces swelling, supports the abdominal wall as it heals, helps prevent seroma formation, and can significantly improve your final result.
Most surgeons recommend wearing a Stage 1 compression garment continuously for the first four to six weeks following abdominoplasty, followed by a lighter Stage 2 garment for a further four to six weeks. We stock medical grade garments from Lipoelastic, Macom, and Recova, chosen specifically for their performance in tummy tuck recovery.
What to look for after a tummy tuck
- A firm Stage 1 garment with adjustable fastenings to accommodate swelling
- Full abdominal coverage from below the bust to the hips
- Compatibility with foam boards or inserts if recommended by your surgeon
- Sized from your waist measurement, not your clothing size
- A lighter Stage 2 garment ready for weeks five to twelve
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Macom Side Fastening Girdle 
Macom Side Fastening Girdle
Macom Side Fastening Girdle
Pickup available at The Fitting Service London
Usually ready in 24 hours
£79.90 GBPSale price £79.90 GBP Regular price -
Macom High Back Girdle 
Macom High Back Girdle
Macom High Back Girdle
Pickup available at The Fitting Service London
Usually ready in 24 hours
£84.90 GBPSale price £84.90 GBP Regular price -
Macom Petite High Back Girdle 
Macom Petite High Back Girdle
Macom Petite High Back Girdle
Pickup available at The Fitting Service London
Usually ready in 24 hours
£84.90 GBPSale price £84.90 GBP Regular price -
Macom Girdle with shorts 
Macom Girdle with shorts
Macom Girdle with shorts
Pickup available at The Fitting Service London
Usually ready in 24 hours
£84.90 GBPSale price £84.90 GBP Regular price -
LIPOELASTIC VH Low Variant 
LIPOELASTIC VH Low Variant
LIPOELASTIC VH Low Variant
Pickup available at The Fitting Service London
Usually ready in 24 hours
£75.99 GBPSale price £75.99 GBP Regular price -
Macom Front Fastening Girdle 
Macom Front Fastening Girdle
Macom Front Fastening Girdle
Pickup available at The Fitting Service Maidstone
Usually ready in 24 hours
£79.90 GBPSale price £79.90 GBP Regular price -
Lipoelastic VH Variant 
Lipoelastic VH Variant
Lipoelastic VH Variant
Pickup available at The Fitting Service London
Usually ready in 24 hours
£75.99 GBPSale price £75.99 GBP Regular price -
LIPOELASTIC TB Comfort 
LIPOELASTIC TB Comfort
LIPOELASTIC TB Comfort
Pickup available at The Fitting Service London
Usually ready in 24 hours
£118.99 GBPSale price £118.99 GBP Regular price -
Recova Tummy Tuck - Abdominal Supporter With Velcro Openings 
Recova Tummy Tuck - Abdominal Supporter With Velcro Openings
Recova Tummy Tuck - Abdominal Supporter With Velcro Openings
Pickup available at The Fitting Service London
Usually ready in 24 hours
£73.50 GBPSale price £73.50 GBP Regular price -
Recova High Waist Girdle Above The Knee 
Recova High Waist Girdle Above The Knee
Recova High Waist Girdle Above The Knee
Pickup available at The Fitting Service Maidstone
Usually ready in 24 hours
£82.90 GBPSale price £82.90 GBP Regular price
Your Tummy Tuck Questions Answered
How long do I need to wear a compression garment after a tummy tuck?
Most surgeons recommend wearing a Stage 1 garment continuously for four to six weeks, followed by a Stage 2 garment for a further four to six weeks. Some patients continue with light compression beyond twelve weeks. Always follow your surgeon's specific instructions as timings can vary.
Should I start with an abdominal binder or a full girdle?
This depends on your surgeon's preference and the extent of your procedure. Some surgeons prefer a dedicated abdominal binder in the first two to three weeks, transitioning to a full girdle thereafter. Others recommend going straight into a girdle from day one. We can advise on both options.
Can I get help choosing the right garment before my surgery?
Yes, and we actively encourage it. Ordering your garment before your surgery date means you have it ready from day one and have time to check the sizing is correct. Our fitters can advise on the best garment for your planned procedure before you go into theatre.
Do I need foam boards after my tummy tuck?
Not everyone is advised to use foam boards, but many surgeons recommend them as standard practice after abdominoplasty to prevent seroma and encourage smooth healing. If your surgeon has mentioned them, we stock foam inserts compatible with both binders and girdles.
About tummy tuck recovery
Why compression is essential after abdominoplasty
A tummy tuck involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal area, often combined with tightening of the abdominal muscles. The body responds to this with significant swelling as part of the natural healing process. Compression garments work by applying controlled external pressure to the treated area, which reduces fluid accumulation, supports the healing tissue, and helps the skin retract smoothly over the new contour.
Without adequate compression, patients are more likely to experience prolonged swelling, seroma formation, and less defined results. Most plastic surgeons in the UK recommend wearing compression for a minimum of six to twelve weeks, with the garment worn continuously during Stage 1 except when showering.
Quality first
Stage 1 and Stage 2
Understanding the two stages of compression after tummy tuck
Stage 1 compression garments are worn immediately after surgery and provide firm medical grade compression. They are typically worn for the first four to six weeks, during which swelling is at its highest. These garments often feature adjustable fastenings that allow you to tighten the garment as your swelling reduces over time.
Stage 2 garments are lighter and more comfortable, designed to be worn once the initial swelling has reduced significantly. They continue to support the healing process and help maintain your results during the later weeks of recovery. Getting the transition between stages right matters — our fitters can advise on when to switch and what to look for in a Stage 2 garment.
Not sure on sizing, or which garment is right for your surgery?
Save the hassle of sending items back. Book a fitting with our specialists.
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Near Harley Street
Tuesday - Friday
020 3883 4518
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Maidstone, ME14 1LH
Monday – Friday
01622 805108
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