How Long Should You Wear a Faja After BBL?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a popular cosmetic surgery designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen, resulting in a firmer, flatter stomach. Whether after pregnancy, weight loss, or simply to improve body contour, this procedure can dramatically enhance a person’s confidence and physical appearance. However, the journey to a fully healed and optimal result involves more than just the surgery itself. One crucial component of post-operative care is the use of a faja—a compression garment specifically designed to aid recovery after a tummy tuck.
What Is a Faja?
A faja is a tightly fitted compression garment that wraps around the midsection. Originating from Latin America, fajas have long been used for body shaping and post-surgical recovery. After a tummy tuck, a faja helps support the abdominal muscles best faja for tummy tuck and skin as they heal, providing compression to minimize swelling and fluid buildup, which can affect the final contour of the body.
Why Is Wearing a Faja Important After a Tummy Tuck?
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Reduces Swelling and Fluid Retention
Following surgery, the body naturally responds with inflammation and swelling in the operated area. This swelling can prolong recovery and obscure the final results of the tummy tuck. Wearing a faja applies consistent pressure, which helps reduce swelling by promoting better circulation and preventing the accumulation of fluids (seromas). -
Supports the Healing Tissues
After the removal of excess skin and tightening of muscles during a tummy tuck, the abdominal area is vulnerable. The faja acts like a stabilizing bandage, holding the tissues in place as they heal. This support can prevent complications such as wound separation and help the skin adhere properly to the underlying tissues. -
Improves Comfort and Reduces Pain
By compressing the area, a faja can reduce movement that might cause discomfort or strain on the surgical site. Many patients report feeling more secure and less achy while wearing their compression garment, especially when standing or walking. -
Enhances the Final Contour and Shape
Compression helps the skin conform to the new abdominal shape. Without a faja, loose skin may sag or swell unevenly, potentially compromising the smooth, flat look that patients desire. The garment encourages the skin and muscles to settle into their new positions for a better aesthetic result.
How Long Should You Wear a Faja After a Tummy Tuck?
The duration of faja use varies depending on the surgeon’s recommendation and the individual’s healing progress. Typically, patients are advised to wear the faja continuously for the first 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, only removing it for showering or cleaning. After this initial period, some surgeons recommend wearing it during the day for another 4 to 6 weeks to provide ongoing support.
Choosing the Right Faja
Not all fajas are created equal. It’s important to select a garment designed specifically for post-surgical use, with adjustable compression and breathable materials to enhance comfort. Many surgeons provide or recommend medical-grade fajas that fit snugly without restricting breathing or circulation.
Wearing a faja after a tummy tuck is a critical step in achieving the best possible recovery and results. While it might feel tight or slightly uncomfortable at first, the benefits far outweigh any temporary inconvenience. By reducing swelling, supporting healing tissues, improving comfort, and enhancing the overall shape, a faja is a patient’s best ally in the post-tummy tuck journey toward a flatter, firmer abdomen.