A faja is a specialized compression garment worn after surgical procedures like Lipo 360 to support the body during the healing process. It works by applying consistent pressure to the treated areas, aiding in the recovery and shaping of the body. This garment is a temporary but important component of post-operative care, designed to optimize the results of the liposuction procedure.
Understanding Faja’s Role
The primary purpose of wearing a faja after Lipo 360 is to manage the body’s natural response to surgical trauma. Lipo 360 involves removing fat from the entire midsection, which creates spaces under the skin. The faja applies pressure to these areas, helping to reduce swelling by limiting fluid accumulation and preventing seroma formation. This compression also encourages the skin to retract and adhere smoothly to the new body contours, minimizing skin laxity and promoting a more sculpted appearance. The faja also helps reduce post-operative bruising and discomfort by providing gentle support to healing tissues.
Phased Faja Wear After Lipo 360
The duration of faja wear after Lipo 360 involves distinct phases, starting immediately after surgery. Patients are advised to wear a Stage 1 faja, which offers low compression, for approximately three weeks continuously, removing it only for showering and washing. This initial garment allows proper circulation and drainage of fluids inserted during the liposuction process.
Following this, patients transition to a Stage 2 faja, which provides higher compression and is worn for an extended period, about three months. The higher compression helps in further contouring and skin tightening as the body continues to heal. These timelines are general guidelines, and individual recovery rates vary. Adherence to the surgeon’s specific post-operative instructions is paramount.
Recognizing When to Adjust Faja Use
Adjusting faja use depends on observing specific changes in the body and consulting with the surgeon. A significant reduction in swelling is a primary indicator, as the faja’s role in minimizing fluid is less pronounced once initial swelling subsides. The skin feeling firmer and more adherent to the underlying tissues also suggests readiness for transition or discontinuation. Patients may also notice increased comfort in their garment, or that their Stage 1 faja feels looser, which is a positive sign of healing. However, any decision to alter the faja wearing schedule, such as moving from a Stage 1 to a Stage 2 garment or stopping wear entirely, should only be made after consultation with the surgeon.
Consequences of Not Wearing Your Faja
Failing to adhere to the recommended faja wearing schedule can lead to several undesirable outcomes that compromise the results of Lipo 360. Without adequate compression, prolonged and excessive swelling can occur, delaying the final appearance of the sculpted areas. There is also an increased risk of seroma formation, potentially requiring medical drainage. Inadequate compression can result in uneven contours or dimpling because the skin may not retract smoothly or uniformly over the treated areas. The skin may also not tighten as effectively, leading to skin laxity or a less defined silhouette, ultimately diminishing the aesthetic benefits of the liposuction procedure.