What should you know about a lymphatic compression suit?

Lymphoedema can develop when lymph drainage is reduced, including after cancer treatment. A suit may cover the trunk, an arm, or a leg, depending on where swelling occurs. Its pressure is designed to support tissue fluid movement and help the treated area hold a more stable shape. It does not remove the underlying cause and should be selected for the person’s measurements, skin condition, circulation, movement, and swelling pattern.

A lymphoedema clinician or trained fitter should assess you before choosing the garment. Put it on as instructed, check that seams are flat, and inspect the skin after wearing it. It should feel supportive rather than sharply painful, numb, or restrictive. Keep it clean according to its care instructions and replace it when the fabric loses its fit. Compression is often combined with movement, skin care, and manual techniques within lymphoedema therapy.

Remove the garment and contact your care team if you develop new numbness, marked pain, colour change, cold skin, or worsening swelling while wearing it. Seek urgent medical help for sudden breathlessness, chest pain, or a rapidly red and hot swollen area with fever.

Ask which garment style and pressure level suit your swelling, how long to wear it, how to manage hot weather, and what to do if your size changes. Ask whether skin care or supervised exercises should accompany compression.