What Is an Abdominal Board?

The Right Way to Wear Abdominal Board Under Your Faja

Tabla AbdominaIf you’re recovering from a BBL, lipo, or tummy tuck, you’ve probably heard the phrase “compression is key” for smooth recovery. But wearing a faja alone isn’t always enough. That’s where the abdominal board comes in. It’s one of those post-op essentials that seems confusing at first — but once you get it right, it can transform your recovery.

Let’s walk through exactly how to wear your ab board under your faja — without the guesswork or discomfort.

What Is an Abdominal Board?

An ab board is a firm, flat support that sits across your midsection. It’s usually worn underneath your faja to help apply even pressure across your abdomen after surgery. This compression helps:

  • Reduce swelling and inflammation

  • Prevent fluid buildup (seromas)

  • Prevent skin creases and irregularities

  • Encourage a flatter, smoother tummy

  • Help in lymphatic drainage

  • Speed up the healing process

When to Start Wearing an Ab Board After Surgery

It is usually recommended to start wearing an abdominal board about one week after surgery, once the initial swelling has begun to subside. Immediately after the procedure, you may be advised to wear a compression garment with foam padding underneath to support healing and reduce swelling. The abdominal board is typically introduced one week post-surgery to provide additional support and contouring. The duration of use can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on your individual health, healing progress, and the extent of the procedure.

Also Read: Why Use an AB Board After Liposuction

Why Placement of Ab Board Matters?

The right placement of the abdominal board is crucial for optimal and effective recovery. If you just throw your ab board in and hope for the best, you’re likely to run into a few problems:

  • Uneven compression
  • Poor contour or flatness in the tummy area

  • Discomfort when sitting or moving

  • Skin creases or marks

  • Poor circulation in healing areas

  • Prolong swelling and bruising

When placed correctly, your ab board should feel snug but not painful. It should give you support, not bruises.

Step-by-Step: How to Wear an Ab Board Under Your Faja

Let’s keep this simple. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Prepare AB board

Ensure your abdominal board is clean, free of dirt and debris. 

2. Clean and Dry Skin

Make sure your skin is freshly washed and completely dry before putting anything on. Avoid using oils, lotions, or creams — they can cause your ab board or foams to slip out of place and reduce the effectiveness of compression.

3. Put on Your Lipo Foams (if using)

Some people skip this step, but lipo foams help create an extra layer of soft compression before the firm pressure of the ab board.

4. Place the Abdominal Board Flat on Your Stomach

Place a board gently against your skin on the treated area. No sharp corners digging in. It should mold to your shape.

5. Gently Pull On Your Faja Over It

Start from the bottom and pull up carefully. Adjust the board as needed so it doesn’t fold or shift. Ensure your faja is not creating any pressure points; it should fit snugly over the abdominal board, providing even compression and support.

6. Check Yourself in the Mirror

The board should look and feel symmetrical. You should be able to breathe comfortably and move around without pinching or rubbing.

Also Read: Lipo Foam vs Lipo Board: Which Fits Your Needs

Pro Tips You’ll Wish You Knew Earlier

  • Don’t wear it directly on your skin — always use foams or a soft layer underneath.

  • Avoid wearing it to sleep unless your surgeon approves.

  • Take breaks if needed, but aim to wear it for several hours a day during or as recommended by your surgeon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not using your compression board consistently as instructed by your doctor

  • Not following your surgeon's advice

  • Using the wrong size board for your body

  • Improper application and use

  • Letting it slide around under a loose faja

  • Wearing it too tight, cutting off circulation

Final Thoughts

Wearing an abdominal board under your faja might feel a little awkward at first, but once you get into the routine, it becomes second nature. And the payoff? A smoother, tighter, and more sculpted result — just what you signed up for.

Need the right board for your recovery?

Check out our curated selection of abdominal boards, foams, and fajas — all designed to work together for max comfort and compression.

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