Pre-op (NOv 6) spandex or Girdle for support ?

I have heard of the tummy pillow for coughing support, etc. Anyone had any help from spandex or a loose girdle type thing? I have some running pants that are tight and spandex (I put them under my breeches when I show the horses cuz at 48 ya gotta hide alot a thigh!!!) and they do sorta...support. I was going to try those, but Ihave no idea yet what I will need and what will work the best. And of course, I know you know !!!

When laying around the house I choose the softest, largest and lightest pj bottoms I can find. But If you want to walk and get out I wore spandex. What you have sounds fine. When I first got the staples out I felt like I needed the spandex to hold my stomach and give the extra support.

I bought light support spandex undies for trips to town and office, etc. What I really like are these spandex shorts. They run clear down the leg so they don't bind at all. When I first put them on I felt like I could actually run. Well maybe for a minute!

I had a friend who was a labor and delievery nurse. She told me to ask :dr: about a binder during my pre-ob visit. He said no problem - I did remind him before my surgery and received it the minute I got into my room.

It's a big soft fabric-covered elastic-type band w/ a velcro strap and IS WONDERFUL! I always felt like I was falling out around the stomach area (not because I was overweight) and felt like a burning sensation after about 10 minutes on my feet. When I put the binder on and kept it on I had no problems. I was given the pillow too, but it kept moving around and I couldn't press tight enough for that tight, secure feeling.

The support you receive is wonderful. I wore it ALL the time in the beginning (even to bed). Now at 3 weeks post-op, I still wear it when I'm up and about but not to bed or while in the reclining position in on my favorite piece of furniture (the couch ). I know some people hate them, but they really seem to hold everything in and secure. It was worth it to me and, believe me, I've needed it. (I had a stomach bug and coughing spells! )

Good luck w/ your surgery. You'll feel so much better soon!

I'm curious to find out if we wear spandex all the time will that make it so our stomach muscles become dependent on it? I wonder if we need some "loose stomach" time so that the muscles work on holding it in.

Anyone know?

Spandex helped me.....and I really don't think the support hindered any healing in the ab area. I had trouble blowing my nose for heavens sake....the spandex panties gave me just enough support.......and as the days progressed, I started just concentrating on holding in my stomach. The spandex seemed to help that too. All in good time, I say!