Question:
I have read a lot about abdominal binders. Do we need one and where do you get them?

   — pims426 (posted on December 12, 2003)


December 12, 2003
I asked for mine while I was in the hospital. The hospital provided me with one.
   — artistmama

December 12, 2003
Most ppl will get theirs during surgery. It will be put on you while you are still under. If you really think that you want one get in contact with your doctor's office and find out what your surgeon's policy is on binders. Some doctors do not use them.
   — ChristineB

December 12, 2003
They put mine on in the recovery room. My binder was my best friend. I think it made me feel secure and help ease the pain. I wore it for two weeks. I would suggest you speak to your surgeon and see what method he uses. I would highly recommend a binder. Good Luck.
   — shbama

December 12, 2003
Not all docs use them. Mine doesn't believe we need to wear them. But if your doctor wants you to have you, you will get it in the hospital. Some people go ahead and buy one on their own but you really need to wait and see what your doctor wants.
   — Delores S.

December 12, 2003
I read about them pre-op and thought they'd be a good idea, but my doc didn't say one way or another, and I was careful in the hospital and after I got home with my small pillow for support. I tried using an ace bandage, (2 actually) and it ended up being more trouble than it was worth. Check with the doc, but whatever make you more comfortable.
   — track

December 12, 2003
I had to wear one 24/7 for 2+ months due to have tension sutures. I woke up in the recovery room with one on. When I went in for my one week check up I asked about getting a second on as I NEEDED to wear it all the time. It was painful for me to NOT have it on but it was getting "ripe" and really needed washing. They gave me a list of suppliers in my state. Luckily there was a place in my town. I ordered one and it took a couple of days to come in. Insurance covered both.
   — Kathy J.

December 13, 2003
Hi, Debbie: I woke up from surgery with one on. If your doc wants you to have one, that is most likely what he/she will do; they will give it to you at the hospital. Mine itched me terribly (I have very sensitive skin), so they told me I only really needed to wear it while I was up walking. Quite honestly, I didn't wear it at all once I came home. Proximal lap rny 08/19/03, 275/210/???
   — Moysa B.

December 13, 2003
The BTC put one on me following surgery. Last night I tried putting a t-shirt under it and it feels ever so much better. I would make sure that the facility you are going to does indeed provide them as I seem to remember some people not having them and that does seem strange to me. Sandra
   — Arizona_Sun

December 19, 2003
My binder caused me a LOT of trouble! The one they put on me after surgery was too small, once I did some swelling.(Which is perfectly normal!) I took it off on the second day, and it had cut into my skin in several places. I replaced it with a larger one, but it was never comfortable, and after the third day I tossed it.
   — MsBatt

December 19, 2003
Debbie: I am required to wear a binder for 6 months in order to reduce the possibility of a hernia. BUT, I initially did not have to when I had my Lap RNY. It was only after I had an emergency open procedure (laporectomy?) a week later to relieve a bowel blockage. It is somewhat uncomfortable until you continue to shrink. I went from a 45"-60" to a 30"-45" binder!! Be sure to get at least 2 so you can wash one. They can get a bit 'gamey'. I look at it as insurance against another possible surgery (hernia reduction) later. It also helps me in keeping my 'apron' from hanging loose too.
   — emtp435




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