How Long Should I Wear My Swelly Belly Band

I had a SAH on Tuesday, January 26th and was released from the castle on Thursday. Since being released, I have noticed that my abdomen has swelled considerably and extremely tight (almost feels like constant pinching) on the right side where it appears that my stitches and staples are extremely tight and pulling much more than the left side.

I have a Swelly Belly Band that I have been using off and on since Thursday (perhaps twice a day). My question is should I use it 4 or 5 times a day and if so for how long? I just really want this swelling to go down and be able to stand upright and walk. I have also noticed that as time passes my staples become more and more visible. Is this normal?

I have a very large horizontal incision as I am a large woman and my doctor refers to my stomach as having a "jelly roll". Perhaps my belly was more swollen in the hospital and I had not noticed since I was given the usual Morphine, Toradol, Demerol and Dilaudid.

Any help/suggestions you have would be greatly appreciated. I have been taking it very easy...having my DH do most all things for me with the exception of my walking. I also have an abdominal binder, but not using at this time as I do not wish to add any additional pressure to my stomach.

Thanks,
Lisa