What kind of support garment(s) you’ll need

You will need a compression garment to support the area after a diastasis recti repair, which is typically done in conjunction with an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck).

This support is crucial for the healing process and is usually worn for 6 to 8 weeks post-surgery, though the exact duration and type of garment will be specified by your surgeon.

Here are the common types and their purposes:

1. Initial Post-Operative Garment (Stage 1)
Immediately following the surgery, your surgeon will likely put you into one of the following:

Abdominal Binder: This is a wide, adjustable elastic wrap that fastens around your midsection, often with Velcro or hook-and-eye closures.

Purpose: It provides firm, uniform compression over the entire surgical area to stabilize the tightened muscles and skin.

Duration: Typically worn 24 hours a day (removed only for showering) for the first 1 to 4 weeks to control initial swelling and help the internal tissues adhere.

2. Transition/Long-Term Garment (Stage 2)
As the initial swelling subsides, your surgeon will likely transition you to a second type of garment, often called a Stage 2 garment or a long-term compression garment:

Compression Girdle, Bodysuit, or High-Waisted Garment: These are medical-grade garments that look more like a rigid form of shapewear. They often extend from under the bust down to the mid-thigh or knee.

Purpose: They provide continuous, controlled compression to help with the final contouring, reduce residual swelling, smooth out any irregularities, and continue supporting the muscle repair.

Duration: Worn continuously or during the day for the remainder of the recommended recovery period (often up to 6-8 weeks total).

Key Functions of the Compression Garment:
Reduces Swelling: The primary benefit is to apply pressure to prevent the accumulation of fluid (seroma) and minimize bruising.

Supports the Repair: It holds the newly sutured muscles (plication) and overlying tissues in their correct position, which is es