Why Your Doctor Recommends Stage 1 & Stage 2 Recovery Garments After Surgery
Whether you’ve just had plastic surgery, liposuction, a tummy tuck, or a similar procedure, you’ve likely been told to wear a post-surgery compression garment. But did you know there are different stages of garments for different phases of healing?
Many patients are surprised to learn their recovery plan includes Stage 1 and Stage 2 garments, each designed to support your body in unique ways at different points in your healing journey.
Here’s why doctors recommend both—and how they help you heal better, faster, and more comfortably.
✅ What Is a Stage 1 Recovery Garment?
Stage 1 garments are designed for the immediate post-operative period, typically worn during the first 1 to 3 weeks after surgery.
🔹 Purpose:
To minimize swelling (edema) and fluid buildup
To support the surgical site and prevent excessive movement
To help stabilize skin and tissues as they begin to heal
To reduce pain and discomfort
🔹 Features:
High-compression level for firm support
Full coverage (including built-in bras, zippers, hook closures, or open-crotch designs)
Soft, breathable fabric suitable for sensitive skin
Easy to wear and remove while you’re sore or less mobile
This garment plays a critical role in the first stage of recovery when your body is most vulnerable and swelling is at its peak.
✅ What Is a Stage 2 Recovery Garment?
Once your body has moved past the initial inflammation phase, usually around Week 3 or 4, your surgeon may recommend transitioning to a Stage 2 garment.
🔹 Purpose:
To continue gentle compression for ongoing support
To help shape and contour your body as tissues settle into place
To enhance comfort and mobility during daily activities
To help manage skin retraction and scarring
🔹 Features:
Moderate compression—lighter than Stage 1, but still effective
Less bulky and more discreet under clothing
Often includes adjustable straps, softer fabrics, and sleeker designs
Suitable for longer wear throughout the day or even under work attire
Stage 2 garments help maintain your surgical results as your body continues to recover, typically worn for several more weeks or as advised by your surgeon.
👩⚕️ Why You Need Both
Your body heals in phases—and your garments need to match those phases. Here’s why wearing both Stage 1 and Stage 2 garments is essential:
🕒 Right compression at the right time
Too much pressure in later stages can cause discomfort, while not enough pressure early on can lead to swelling and poor results.🎯 Enhanced shaping and contouring
Especially for liposuction, tummy tuck, or BBL patients—support throughout recovery helps sculpt and define your new shape.🛡️ Reduced risk of complications
Proper compression garments can prevent seromas, hematomas, skin irregularities, and other common post-op issues.😊 Improved comfort and confidence
As you heal, you’ll feel better with garments that match your mobility, wardrobe needs, and activity level.
💡 Tip: Follow Your Surgeon’s Advice
Every surgery—and every body—is different. Always follow your surgeon’s timeline for when to switch garments and how long to wear them each day. Wearing your garments as directed is one of the best things you can do to ensure smooth healing and long-term results.
🛍️ Where to Find Stage 1 & Stage 2 Garments
At SurgeryRecovery.com.au, we specialize in high-quality post-op garments recommended by Australian surgeons. From Stage 1 full-support compression bodysuits to Stage 2 shaping wear, our range is tailored to meet your body’s needs at every stage of recovery.
