What should you know about Leonisa compression garments?

Compression fabric is designed to fit closely around an area such as the arm, breast, chest or leg. Pressure can help limit the build-up of fluid in tissues and may make a swollen area feel supported during movement. A garment is not a treatment for cancer itself, and it cannot explain why swelling is present. After lymph-node surgery or radiation, a clinician may assess for lymphoedema and recommend a particular style, pressure level and wearing schedule.

Leonisa is a brand name, so products can differ in shape, seams, fabric and compression. A comfortable fit should feel secure without digging into skin, causing numbness or making fingers or toes change colour.

Ask your oncology or rehabilitation team whether compression is appropriate before buying a garment, especially if you have a wound, infection, reduced sensation or circulation concerns. They can measure the affected area and advise whether a sleeve, glove, bra or another design is suitable. Put it on smoothly, without rolling or folding the edges. Check the skin after removal, wash it according to the label and replace it when the fabric loses its supportive fit. Lymphoedema therapy may combine compression with movement, skin care and other techniques.

Remove the garment and contact your care team if swelling suddenly increases, pain develops, or the garment causes tingling, numbness, colour change, marked pressure or broken skin. Seek prompt medical assessment for spreading redness, warmth, fever, drainage or a rapidly worsening tender area, because these can signal infection. New breathlessness or chest pain needs urgent medical attention rather than adjustment of a garment.

Which body area should be measured, and what garment style and pressure are suitable for me? When should I wear it, and should I remove it overnight? How should I manage a wound, rash or change in swelling? What signs mean I should stop using it and call the team?