When to Remove Compression Stockings After Surgery

No matter what it’s for, recovering from surgery can be a lengthy process and there are always so many instructions to take in. If you’re having or recovering from an operation and your healthcare provider has advised you to use compression wear, you may be left wondering when to remove compression stockings after surgery. We’re here to answer that question for you.

How Long to Wear Compression Wear After a Surgery

The length of time you should wear compression socks after surgery will vary depending on the type of surgery you’ve received, so it’s generally best to consult a medical professional for personalised instructions; however, there are some basic guidelines that you can keep in mind.

If you’re having major surgery or surgery on your legs, hips, abdomen or other area below the waist, you should wear your compression stockings for a minimum of two weeks and up to two months until you’re fully mobile. We highly recommend consulting with your surgeon in this case.

If your surgery is minor or on a part of your body above the abdomen, you should wear your stockings until you’re fully mobile and able to perform normal duties again. This may range from a couple of hours to a few days.

If you’re having a minor surgery that doesn’t require general anaesthetic, you probably won’t require compression wear; however, it never hurts to wear them for general health reasons.

beige compression stockings

When Can I Take Compression Stockings Off After Surgery?

Your medical team will usually remove dressings and fit your compression wear for you. If you’ve had leg surgery, such as varicose vein surgery, it’s recommended to leave your stockings on for a whole week without removing them. You can then continue regular wear but remove them at night until swelling reduces and symptoms abate. For other surgeries, it’s usually recommended to wear them for 24-48 hours, then you can begin to remove them at night until swelling and symptoms have reduced and full mobility has returned.

Why Wear Compression Stockings After Surgery?

After surgery, compression stockings are primarily used to prevent blood clots from forming by ensuring blood does not pool in your veins during periods of immobility. Besides preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis and promoting circulation, they can also help reduce swelling and pain, prevent varicose and spider veins and accelerate the healing process.

It’s advised to use graduated compression for medical reasons, as they are more effective and comfortable. All of our TXG products feature our signature graduated compression.

At TXG Socks, we can help you choose the best socks for after surgery. Browse our extensive range of comfortable health compression wear, or contact us if you’d like some assistance. We look forward to supporting you during your recovery.

Note: The information provided here is for general use and is not intended to act as medical advice. We advise anyone interested in this subject to seek qualified, professional advice.

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