need help on compression timeline etc...

 When did you feel comfortable to stop wearing compression after a TT or LBL?  My doctor doesn't require me to wear any, but he said I could if I wanted.  I have been wearing either a compression belt or spanx for about 20 hours out of every 24 hours since the 2nd week after my surgery.  I am now getting close to 5 weeks out and know that I should probably start phasing out sometime in the semi-near future.  I have heard 6 weeks on other sites.  What did y'all do?  What did your doctor want you to do? I feel like my compression is like my security blanket right now.  Did you swell a lot when you stopped wearing your garments?  Did you like not wearing them?  Did you stop cold turkey or phase out of wearing it?  Any input would be appreciated! Thanks!

I am just over 7 weeks out and still wearing mine 24/7, by my surgeon's request (except when I shower and wa**** obviously). To be honest, I'm a bit nervous to stop wearing it because I worry I'll have more discomfort without it. I see my surgeon this weekend (I'll be 8 weeks out) and I'll see what they say about phasing it out.

I'm also concerned I will heal "lumpy" without it. Maybe that's irrational. I like to think the gament keeps things smooth... or at least smoother...

I am much more comfortable with mine on.  I am 10 weeks out from a TT and still wear my binder 24/7.  I tried going without it and didn't feel comfortable.  I did try again wearing a spanx and that was ok..so I might do that alittle more.  I also have been having alot of back pain from lipo and my binder helps with too so I really am comfortable with it.  No harm at all in wearing it longer.

Patty

My doctor didn't have me wear any compression garments until 3 weeks Post op. His reasoning is that I basically cut you in half. Now the two halves need to relearn how to communicate and establish good blood flow. At three weeks he told me to utilize Spanx type compression garments. He told me to wear that for 4 weeks - 24x7. I purchased the starter brand at walmart for $8.

After that I stopped cold turkey. I still swell but only once in a while maybe every other week for a couple of hours I feel it. I also notice that my weight goes up and down even when I don't deviate from plan by +- 4 pounds.