The Importance of the Compression Vest
Not all surgeons require a compression vest after surgery, or some for only a short time. I have my gynecomastia patients wear a compression vest 24/7 for 6 weeks. The vest may be bulky, and a little uncomfortable, but is necessary for the healing process. It should be worn snug, but not tight.
Dr. Miguel Delgado recommends the vest be worn 24/7 for 4 to 6 weeks, depending on how the patient is healing. The vest should only be removed when showering. It is recommended to have 2 vests so that you can rotate them while one is being laundered.
The purpose of the vest is to aid the skin to contract. The vest helps increase the flow of blood and prevent the collection of fluid. Additionally, the compression vest controls the amount of swelling, and aids in binding the chest tissues, while decreasing post-op pain.
The Importance of the Compression Vest, After initial healing, Dr. Delgado has his patients graduate to a second vest that is thinner and has a lining of soft T-shirt material with compression in the chest area only. Men who wear dress shirts state that these vests are not visible and more comfortable.
