Compression garments for lymphoedema

When you have lymphoedema, an important part of your management plan may be compression garments.

These are medical items that reduce the swelling of lymphoedema. Using ‘graduated’ pressure, they improve the circulation of lymphatic fluid by:

• moving excess fluid out of the affected area
• reducing the fluid that collects
• softening firm tissue.

Compression garments also are important to maintain improvements.

Find out about other treatments for lymphoedema.

The role of lymphoedema practitioners

Compression garments need to fit well to be effective.

Practitioners who are trained in lymphoedema care can prescribe you a garment and make sure it fits. This gives you the correct pressure gradient on the affected area.

If you have breast lymphoedema, your practitioner may advise you to wear a compression bra or vest. Sometimes they may recommend an insert for your bra.

Compression clothing comes in a variety of colours, fabrics and textures. You can choose the one you prefer, such as a sleeve that includes a glove, or a separate glove.

When to wear compression garments

Usually you wear compression garments during the day and take them off at night.

You need to replace compression garments regularly so they keep the right compression level to manage lymphoedema.

Sometimes you may be advised to wear a compression garment when swelling is present and you are:

• doing sporting activities
• travelling for a long period, by air, car or train.

Speak to your lymphoedema therapist for more information.

Financial help for compression garments

If you have a diagnosis of lymphoedema, you may be able to access financial help to pay for compression garments. Private health insurance may also give you a rebate on medically-graded garments. 

Schemes run by state and territory governments cover some, or all, of the cost. Find the scheme in your state or territory at Australasian Lymphology Association.