Understanding Compression garments: What they are and why they matter.

Compression garments play a vital role in managing lymphoedema, lipoedema, and post‑operative recovery. They are specially designed medical textiles that apply controlled, graduated pressure to support the tissues, improve circulation, and reduce swelling. When fitted correctly, they can significantly improve comfort, mobility, and long‑term outcomes.

My Professional Compression Measurement & Garment Recommendation Service

I provide a dedicated clinical service to ensure every patient receives the correct compression for their condition and stage of treatment. This includes:
Precise Clinical Measurement – Accurate measurement is essential for effective compression. I take detailed circumferential and length measurements to ensure the garment fits properly, delivers the correct pressure, and remains comfortable throughout daily wear.

Assessment of Clinical Need – I evaluate the patient’s condition—whether lymphoedema, lipoedema, or post‑operative swelling—to determine the appropriate class, style, and type of compression.

Tailored Garment Recommendations – Based on the assessment, I recommend the most suitable compression garments, including: 
– Flat‑knit or circular‑knit options– Ready‑to‑wear or made‑to‑measure garments
– Hosiery, sleeves, gloves, leggings, shorts, or full‑body garments
– Daytime and nighttime compression solutions

Education & Support
I guide patients on how to apply, remove, and care for their garments, ensuring they feel confident and supported.

Why Compression Is Important

Compression garments are not simply supportive clothing—they are a core part of medical management. 

Their benefits include:
– Reducing swelling and fluid build‑up
– Improving lymphatic and venous return
– Supporting soft tissues and reducing pain
– Preventing progression of swelling-related conditions
– Enhancing mobility and daily function
– Improving surgical outcomes and reducing complications

Compression for Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic system cannot drain fluid effectively, due to it being damaged either from cancer treatment, surgery, lymph node removal or damaged vessels following an infection or if the person was born with it. This leads to chronic swelling. Compression is essential because it:
– Helps move lymphatic fluid out of the affected area
– Prevents further fluid accumulation
– Softens fibrotic (hardened) tissue
– Supports the limb after manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)
– Reduces the risk of cellulitis and skin breakdown
For lymphoedema, garments are often flat‑knit, structured, and custom‑measured to accommodate limb shape and maintain consistent pressure.

Compression for Lipoedema
Lipoedema is a chronic inflammatory fat‑distribution disorder that causes pain, heaviness, and easy bruising. Compression helps by:
– Reducing discomfort and sensitivity
– Supporting the tissues to minimise movement‑related pain
– Improving mobility and endurance
– Helping manage swelling that may accompany later‑stage lipoedema
– Providing shape and stability to affected limbs
Patients often find that consistent compression significantly improves daily comfort and reduces fatigue.

Compression After Surgery
Post‑operative compression is widely used in cosmetic, orthopaedic, vascular, and general surgery. It supports healing by:
– Controlling swelling and inflammation
– Reducing bruising
– Supporting tissues as they heal and settle
– Improving contour and aesthetic outcomes (especially after liposuction, abdominoplasty, or body contouring)
– Reducing the risk of seroma formation
– Enhancing comfort during recovery
Correct fit is crucial—too loose and it’s ineffective, too tight and it may compromise healing. This is why professional measurement is so important.