While Healing After a Breast Reduction & Lift, Can I Sleep Without a Surgical Bra?

asked 11 months ago by Elanore8 in Los Angeles, CA
Latest answer by Tom J. Pousti, MD
Question viewed 459 times
Tags: sleep, sports bra

Can I go a few hours a day without a surgical or sports bra?

8 answers to While Healing After a Breast Reduction & Lift, Can I Sleep Without a Surgical Bra?

Surgical Bra after Breast Reduction Surgery

Thank you for your question. You should communicate with your surgeon to see what he/she recommends in regards to wearing a post surgical bra after breast reduction surgery. I recommend that patients wear the surgical bra for 3-4 weeks after surgery. It supplies good support for the patient. I do let patients know that if they need to take a "little break" from the bra every once in a while, it should be fine. Best Wishes!

Tom J. Pousti, MD
San Diego Plastic Surgeon

Breast Reduction - Do I Have to Wear My Bra 24/7?

Hi Elanore8, Each surgeon has his or her own routine so you should, of course, check with your surgeon on this. I usually recommend that the patient stay in the bra for the first 7-10 days and, in fact, they usually like to since it provides some extra support and a sense of protection. After that it's more a question of how the patient feels; even then, most women stay in the bra (at least they tell me they do!) for about 3 weeks after the surgery. By the second... more

Alan Engler, MD
New York Plastic Surgeon

Sleeping after breast surgery

Every doctor is different in what they prescribe post-surgery. You should really check with your surgeon on what instructions they want you to follow after surgery.

Steven Wallach, MD
Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Bras for Breast Reduction

Yes, you can go without the bra for a few hours at a time following breast reduction surgery. Earlier on, I would suggest doing this during the day rather than at night. When you are asleep you have less awareness and control over yourself, and may not realize that you are doing damage.

Hugh McLean, MD
Mississauga Plastic Surgeon

Bra after breast surgery

How long ago was your surgery? I am wondering why you want to have it off for a few hours since most patients feel more comfortable with it on for support. I would make sure that it is not rubbing you anyplace that is causing discomfort. I have seen blisters occur because the bra is pinching or too tight in certain areas. Sometimes you are numb on the outside of the breasts and cannot tell that you are developing a problem. In sum, take it off to examine your skin and... more

Tiffany McCormack, MD
Reno Plastic Surgeon

Sleeping in a bra following breast reduction

There is considerable variability in recommendations among plastic surgeons on sleeping in a bra following breast reduction surgery. If you have already had your procedure, you should inquire of your operating plastic surgeon. My recommendation would be to wear a supportive bra for around 3 - 4 weeks though many patients finding that wearing one for a longer period of time is more comfortable physically and mentally. This provides better support of your breasts and may allow for quicker... more

Steven Turkeltaub, MD
Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon

www.turkeltaub.com

Breast reduction and breast lift compression

My routine is to have someone in a post operative surgica bral full time (24/7) for two weeks and then a sports bra for two more weeks. I think compression cuts down on post operative problems and you end up with a better result.

Jack Peterson, MD
Topeka Plastic Surgeon

Wearing a surgical bra after breast reduction

Most surgeons develop their own post-operative protocols, based upon what they have found works well for their patients. Assuming you have already had the procedure, I would recommend that you follow the recommendations of the surgeon whom you trusted to perform the procedure. If you have not yet undergone your surgery, review post-operative care and activity recommendations with your surgeon prior to having the procedure performed. My response to your question/post... more