Will removing my compression stocking do harm?

I was told to wear a compression stocking for six weeks on my right leg after ankle surgery on my left. Will taking it off two days early do any harm?

Answers from doctors (9)


It will not make a difference, especially if you are mobile and able to walk. Ultimately, this would prevent blood clots more so than compression stockings.

Answered by HeartCare Associates Vein Center (View Profile)

It will not make a difference, especially if you are mobile and able to walk. Ultimately, this would prevent blood clots more so than compression stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Feb 28, 2014

I don't know for sure. I would ask your doctor. if you have lymphedema or other underlying issues, I would not recommend it.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

I don't know for sure. I would ask your doctor. if you have lymphedema or other underlying issues, I would not recommend it.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Clinic of North Carolina

Published on Feb 27, 2014

Sorry, I can't answer that question. Please refer back to the surgeon who did your surgery.

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Answered by Vein Clinic of North Carolina

Sorry, I can't answer that question. Please refer back to the surgeon who did your surgery.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Feb 27, 2014

No harm will happen immediately. Your surgeon has prescribed the compression stockings to prevent deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the veins). Removing the stockings will put you at risk of this condition.

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

No harm will happen immediately. Your surgeon has prescribed the compression stockings to prevent deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the veins). Removing the stockings will put you at risk of this condition.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Feb 27, 2014

There is a higher incidence of blood clots with orthopedic surgery (DVT) and hose use will reduce the risk. They can occur in either leg. I advise you to talk with your surgeon but typically the hose on the untreated leg can be removed at night. This goes along with being hydrated and doing some muscle pumping to circulate the blood. If your are at almost 6 weeks you should be fine.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

There is a higher incidence of blood clots with orthopedic surgery (DVT) and hose use will reduce the risk. They can occur in either leg. I advise you to talk with your surgeon but typically the hose on the untreated leg can be removed at night. This goes along with being hydrated and doing some muscle pumping to circulate the blood. If your are at almost 6 weeks you should be fine.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Care of New Mexico

Published on Feb 27, 2014

Probably not.

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Answered by Vein Care of New Mexico

Probably not.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Feb 27, 2014

No, removing the stocking will not do any harm at this point.



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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

No, removing the stocking will not do any harm at this point.



Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Feb 27, 2014

Removing the support stocking 2 days early will not do any harm. That 6 week period is not written in stone and physician dependent.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Removing the support stocking 2 days early will not do any harm. That 6 week period is not written in stone and physician dependent.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Veins etc. at Comprehensive Cardiovascular Consultants

Published on Feb 26, 2014

It depends on when the procedure was performed. Typically, patients can remove the stocking one week after the ablation. However, there may be a reason why your doctor is recommending you wear it for so long. To be safe, follow up and consult with your treating physician. Since you are under his or her care, and since he or she has examined you, they would be the best person to speak with regarding this matter.

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Answered by Veins etc. at Comprehensive Cardiovascular Consultants

It depends on when the procedure was performed. Typically, patients can remove the stocking one week after the ablation. However, there may be a reason why your doctor is recommending you wear it for so long. To be safe, follow up and consult with your treating physician. Since you are under his or her care, and since he or she has examined you, they would be the best person to speak with regarding this matter.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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