abdominal supporter or swelly belly band?

im thinking i might go ahead and purchase one of these.. i think that i need some support.. but im not sure what to get.. i dont really need the cold pack stuff so im leaning more towards the abdominal supporter. it says when you have healed to move to it.. well when do i know to move to it? my surgery was on oct 26th.. vertical incision (longer than normal) im not itchy.. ive had my staples out and am onto steri strips.. would i be okay in this? i need something to support me at night when im sleeping on my side.. and when im walking around. so go for it? or wait??

I love my binder. It really helps w/walking and just doing simple tasks like cleaning a little and cooking. You will be glad you got it.

Christina: I had the same question about which one is better. I decided to go with the swelly belly binder and let me tell you -- it's great! The deal with this one is that you first chill it (like an ice pack) and you then put it on. Best used when you swell up after exercise or whenever you need it. I purchased the bali control panties for comfort and support -- they are invisible under your clothing, esp sweats!

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Tina (my real name is Christina, too!)
sah Oct 6

went ahead and ordered the abdominal binder. I might go back and order the swelly belly band but want to see how i do with the abdominal binder..
thanks ladies!!

I got a binder from the hospital (5 wks ago) It was wonderful. After a few weeks, it was just a bit too bulky under my "normal" clothes so I got one of the Bali control panties Tina mentioned. I still wear the binder when I am home. I don't feel so tummy floppy when it's on.

I got both and I use neither. Tried the swelly belly and I hated it. My clothing got wet, even after wrapping it with plastic wrap, because part of the straps still had to be exposed so it would bind. Besides, it got sticky, too. An ice pack is better. As for the binder, I used it a couple of times, but it really never seems to stay in place. I decided that good posture was better. I haven't gotten the Bali's, so no comment. I just wear boxers under my sweats. It might be a different matter if I didn't work from home.

Hi all. While in the hospital my doctor had me using the velcro binder for support. I think it is great, I use it all the time. When she saw me sleeping in it at the hospital, she told me not to because it traps the gas and causes gas pockets. I hope this helps.

I am 5 weeks post op and just ordered one to help me for when I go back to work.. I ordered the abdominal binder for support.