Compression stockings are commonly used after surgery to aid in recovery and prevent complications such as blood clots. While the importance of wearing compression stockings is widely recognized, many patients are unsure about when and how to remove them.
In this article, we’ll discuss when you can take off your compression stockings after surgery, how long you should wear them, and other essential information to ensure a smooth recovery.
How Long Should You Wear Compression Socks After Surgery?
The duration for wearing compression stockings after surgery largely depends on the type of surgery you’ve had and your doctor’s recommendations. Generally, compression stockings are worn for anywhere between a few days to 2-4 weeks. In cases of major surgeries, such as those involving the legs or abdomen, they may be needed for several weeks to prevent blood clots and improve circulation. For minor surgeries, the duration may be shorter.
It's important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding how long you should wear them. While wearing compression stockings can significantly reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and enhance your circulation, the exact length of time will vary based on your recovery process and the surgery performed.

Do I Need to Wear Compression Stockings After Surgery?
Whether you must wear plus size compression stockings after surgery depends on the type of surgery, your recovery needs, and your individual health condition. Compression stockings are commonly used to promote blood circulation, prevent blood clots, reduce swelling, and aid in the healing process. Below are some common reasons why wearing compression stockings after surgery may be necessary:
1. Preventing Blood Clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
For certain surgeries, especially major surgeries or those that require prolonged bed rest, wearing compression stockings is a common measure to prevent the formation of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Compression stockings provide moderate pressure to help blood flow back up the legs, reducing the risk of clotting.
2. Reducing Post-Surgical Swelling
Certain surgeries, such as those involving the lower limbs or cosmetic procedures, may result in swelling after the operation. Compression stockings help alleviate swelling by encouraging fluid to flow back into the bloodstream, reducing discomfort and aiding recovery.
3. Promoting Blood Circulation
Compression stockings can help improve blood flow, especially for patients with reduced mobility after surgery. For those who are bedridden or have limited activity, compression stockings offer additional support to promote circulation, aiding a faster recovery.
4. Improving Post-Surgical Comfort
For some patients, compression stockings can enhance comfort after surgery, particularly when dealing with swelling or a feeling of heaviness in the limbs. They provide extra support, making it easier to move around during recovery.
5. Requirements Based on the Type of Surgery
- Lower Limb Surgeries (e.g., knee or hip replacements): These surgeries may require patients to wear compression stockings after the operation to prevent blood clots and reduce swelling.
- Cosmetic Surgery: For procedures like breast augmentation or liposuction, compression garments (including stockings) help manage post-operative swelling and ensure smooth skin recovery.
- Varicose Vein Surgery: After varicose vein surgery, compression stockings are a standard part of post-operative care, helping to reduce complications and promote healing.
When Compression Stockings May Not Be Necessary
Although compression stockings are important after many surgeries, not every procedure requires them. Some minimally invasive surgeries, smaller procedures, or surgeries that don't affect blood circulation may not need compression stockings. Your doctor will determine whether they are necessary based on your specific situation (such as the type of surgery and your overall health).
Related read: When Should You Not Wear Compression Stockings
What Happens If You Stop Wearing Compression Socks Too Soon After Surgery?
Stopping the use of compression socks too soon after surgery can lead to several potential issues, as compression socks play an important role in the recovery process. Here's a breakdown of the potential consequences:
Increased Swelling: Compression socks help reduce swelling by promoting better circulation. Without them, fluid can accumulate in the lower extremities, leading to increased swelling and discomfort.
Blood Clots: Compression socks are designed to encourage proper blood flow and reduce the risk of blood clots, especially in the legs. Stopping them prematurely can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially serious condition caused by blood clots.
Delayed Healing: Proper circulation is essential for healing after surgery. Compression socks support this by promoting blood flow, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to healing tissues. Without them, healing might take longer, as the body may not be getting the support it needs.
Pain and Discomfort: Compression socks can also help manage pain and discomfort after surgery, particularly if you’ve had a procedure on the legs or lower body. Without them, you may experience more soreness or discomfort due to reduced circulation.
What Pressure of Compression Socks To Wear After Surgery
After surgery, your doctor or surgical care team will usually recommend compression stockings with a pressure of 20-30 mmHg, which is considered a "moderate" level of compression. The level of compression refers to the amount of therapeutic pressure you feel on your legs.
If you feel that the "compression" is too much, you may need to choose a sock with a lower pressure (such as 15-20 mmHg). Conversely, if you have higher blood circulation issues, you may need to use a higher-pressure sock (such as 30-40 mmHg) to prevent these problems.
Is Sleeping in Compression Socks Okay?
Yes, it is generally okay to sleep in compression socks, but there are a few things to consider. Some patients may find compression stockings uncomfortable while sleeping, especially if they are not accustomed to wearing them for long periods. However, if your doctor has recommended that you wear compression stockings continuously, including during sleep, it’s important to follow those instructions to maximize the benefits of the stockings.
If your doctor advises you to wear compression socks only during the day, you should remove them before going to bed. The goal is to give your legs some time to relax while still maintaining proper circulation throughout the day. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider for personalized advice about whether you should wear them while sleeping.

What is The Name of The Socks The Hospital Use
The socks commonly used in hospitals after surgery are often referred to as anti-embolism stockings or TED stockings (which stands for Thrombo-Embolic Deterrent). These specialized socks provide controlled compression to help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other circulatory issues. They are typically used for patients who have undergone surgery, are immobilized for a period, or are at risk of blood clots.
TED stockings are designed to be worn during the hospital stay and are typically removed when the patient is mobile and their risk of complications has decreased. These socks are an essential part of postoperative care and contribute to a quicker and safer recovery process.
How Long Should I Wear Surgical Stockings?
The length of time you should wear surgical stockings will depend on the nature of your surgery, the recommendations of your healthcare provider, and how your body is responding to recovery. For most patients, surgical stockings are worn for about two to four weeks, especially after surgeries like joint replacement, orthopedic procedures, or those involving veins or arteries. However, in some cases, the need for compression stockings may extend for a longer period, particularly if there are complications or if you have conditions like varicose veins that require additional support.
As you heal and become more mobile, your healthcare provider will assess whether you can gradually reduce the use of compression stockings. In some cases, compression stockings may even be recommended for ongoing wear if you are prone to circulation issues.
Buy Your Compression Socks
For optimal comfort and recovery, consider Plusock compression socks. Designed with both functionality and comfort in mind, Plusock offers high-quality compression socks that promote healthy blood circulation, reduce swelling, and aid in post-surgery recovery. Whether you're recovering from surgery or simply looking to boost circulation during long periods of sitting or standing, Plusock’s compression socks provide the perfect balance of pressure and support.
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Compression Socks Size Chart
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