An important part of your recovery process after breast augmentation will be wearing a post-surgery compression bra. This garment will provide gentle compression to the chest area, helping to keep you comfortable, minimize swelling, promote healing and maintain the proper positioning of your breast implants.
In this guide, we will explain what type of bra is best to wear during each stage of breast augmentation recovery, as well as when to start shopping for new bras and clothing after your implants have settled.
Initial Recovery: Surgical Bra
Surgical bras (which we provide to our patients) differ from regular sports bras in that they provide just the right amount of support to minimize the risk of complications as you heal.
We recommend that most patients wear a surgical bra for one week following your breast augmentation, though we will provide you with customized recovery guidelines based on your specific needs. Surgical bras should be worn at all times, except when showering, until your surgeon gives you the greenlight to switch to a supportive sports bra.
Until You’re Fully Healed: Sports Bra
Once you’ve been cleared to transition from a surgical bra, a supportive sports bra becomes your new best friend. Look for sports bras that offer ample support, moisture-wicking properties (cotton), and front closure.
When selecting a bra to wear for the remainder of your breast enhancement recovery process, keep these tips in mind:
- Avoid underwires, as they can irritate breast implant incisions and slow the implant from settling.
- Choose a bra with front closures so you can more easily get dressed and undressed without raising your arms above your head.
- Choose a bra that is comfortable enough for you to wear 24/7 and that does not place uneven amounts of pressure on any specific area.
Shopping for New Bras Once Implants Have Settled
Resist the urge to shop for a whole new wardrobe until you’ve fully healed and your surgeon confirms that you are seeing your final results. This can take anywhere from 4 to 6 months. Otherwise, you might have to go shopping again if you experience any slight changes in the size, shape or position of your breast implants before you have completely healed.
Once you are able to wear any type of bra that you would like, you can resume wearing regular bras with underwires if you choose. We recommend that patients get professionally measured for new bras, as bra cup sizes are not standard and can vary by brand. It is still important to wear a properly fitting bra with sufficient support to help maximize the longevity of your implants.
If you still have questions about the recovery process after getting breast implants or would like to schedule a consultation with one of the plastic surgeons at The Natural Result, please call our Sacramento office at 916-983-9895 or get in touch online.
