A faja (Spanish for girdle) is a specialized medical-grade compression garment worn after a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). It is a fundamental component of the recovery process, providing continuous support to the surgically altered abdominal area. Wearing the faja is required to optimize healing and significantly influence the ultimate aesthetic outcome of the procedure. The precise duration for wearing this garment is highly individualized and must be determined solely by the operating surgeon’s recommendations.
The Essential Role of Compression Garments
The primary function of the compression garment is to manage the body’s natural inflammatory response following surgery. Consistent external pressure limits the accumulation of post-operative fluid (edema), which causes swelling and bruising. This pressure encourages the lymphatic system to efficiently drain excess fluid, accelerating the resolution of swelling.
Compression also prevents seroma, the buildup of clear fluid where tissue was manipulated. By closing the space between the elevated skin flap and the underlying muscle wall, the garment minimizes fluid pockets. The constant pressure promotes the smooth adherence and retraction of the skin to conform to the flatter abdominal profile.
The faja provides structural support to the abdominal muscles, especially if the procedure included repair for diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles). This bracing action stabilizes the surgical area and reduces tension on the incision line. Wearing the garment reduces discomfort, particularly when coughing or changing positions, protecting the delicate healing tissues.
The Initial Phase of Faja Wear
The initial stage of recovery, typically the first one to four weeks, requires the most intensive use of the faja. During this period, the garment must be worn nearly continuously (24 hours a day), only being removed briefly for showering or cleaning. This mandatory wear ensures uninterrupted support during the peak phase of post-operative swelling and fluid management.
The Phase 1 garment is made from a soft, stretchable material to accommodate significant swelling. It provides low-to-moderate compression to ensure adequate blood circulation and fluid drainage. Surgeons typically provide and fit this first garment immediately after surgery.
It is necessary for the garment to fit correctly; if too tight, it can restrict circulation or cause uneven contouring. Patients are advised to have a second Phase 1 garment available for rotation during washing and drying. Maintaining cleanliness minimizes the risk of skin complications or infection at the incision site.
Transitioning to Long-Term Support and Cessation
The transition phase shifts from immediate, high-intensity healing to the longer-term refinement of surgical results. Typically between two and six weeks post-surgery, patients transition to a Phase 2 compression garment. This second garment is generally tighter and made of a less elastic, higher-compression fabric designed to mold the body once major swelling has decreased.
The wear schedule changes from continuous use to a reduced, part-time schedule, such as 12 hours a day. The total duration varies, but compression is commonly recommended for a minimum of six weeks, often extending to eight or twelve weeks. For extensive surgery or prolonged swelling, the surgeon may advise wearing a lighter garment for up to six months.
The final decision to discontinue the faja is based on the surgeon’s clinical assessment of healing progress. Clearance is given once significant post-operative swelling has resolved and the abdominal contour has stabilized. Stopping prematurely can negatively impact the final outcome, potentially leading to persistent swelling or uneven contours.