Whether you’ve had a breast lift, breast enhancement, breast reduction, or any other type of breast surgical procedure, a post-surgery recovery bra is critical for your proper healing and recovery.
Post-surgery recovery bras help keep you comfortable throughout the recovery process. This can help prevent some of the more serious side effects, such as implant shifting and swelling.
Not sure what type of bra to wear after breast augmentation? Let us help!
Compression Bras – Initial Recovery
You’ll probably be sent home from your breast augmentation procedure in a medical-grade compression bra. While these are not exactly “haute couture,” they are the best choice for healing and recovery. They should be worn for about 4 week but your plastic surgeon should inform you of the exact amount of time she would like you to wear the compression bra in your post-operative instructions.
Keep in mind that it is best to have a few compression bras in your home, so you keep them clean and sanitary around your incision area.
Sports Bras – Long-Term Recovery
After about a month, you won't need to wear the medical-grade compression bras anymore. You can start wearing soft and expandable sports bras. For comfortability, try to avoid bras that contain underwire. Underwire can irritate the breast incision, especially if the incision is located under the breast. With an underwire bra, you may experience discomfort, so it should be avoided. Typically, it’s recommended that you wear sports bras until you’re completely healed and your surgeon says you can wear any kind of support bra that you want.
Guidelines For Picking Out Post-Surgery Recovery Bras
Not sure what to look for when picking out post-surgery bras? Here are some things to look for.
- Front closure – This makes it easier to take off and adjust your bra, with minimal movement to the breasts.
- No underwire – As mentioned above, underwire is hard and uncomfortable and can cause discomfort.
- Breathable fabric – The breasts should be kept dry and ventilated to avoid moisture buildup and irritation, so a breathable synthetic or cotton-blend fabric should be chosen.
- Adjustable straps – You may need to adjust the fit of your bra multiple times during the recovery process.
- Pressure-free, comfortable fit – Your bra should hold your breasts in place, while not placing excessive pressure on any one particular area. Find bras that are comfortable, which you can easily wear all day without any irritation issues.
Once you find a comfortable and breathable bra that is adjustable and provides plenty of support for your new breasts, you will be well on your way to a full recovery in no time and able to confidently reveal your new bust line. Keep it simple, try on multiple bras and find the one that’s right for your particular situation.
Dr. Beverly Fischer at the Advanced Center for Plastic Surgery is an expert in breast augmentation. Whether you are in need of a breast lift or reduction, or you’re seeking breast enhancement surgery, she and the all-female staff at the Advanced Center for Plastic Surgery can help. Contact us today!
