How do I wash under my armpits for days after breast reduction surgery?

Question

I’m 4 days out of breast reduction surgery. I have a bra on that can’t get wet and goes up very high. And, I can’t lift my arms too high (obviously) How do I wash under my armpits? Baby wipes ok?

Richard A. Bartlett, MD · Answer

Dear pepperperson, 
  
Thank you for your question. It is okay for you to use baby wipes underneath your underarms so long as you do so carefully. Conversely, I think you should follow up with your operating surgeon to go over discharge teaching instructions with you to clarify their specific parameters. Best of luck to you!

Christine Blaine, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there, thank you for your question.  I would encourage you to discuss showering (and any other post-operative activities and restrictions) with your Board Certified Operating Plastic Surgeon as he/she may have their own specific recommendations for this.  Generally speaking, I typically allow my patients to begin showering around 48 hours after surgery but each case is different and that is why you should speak with your surgeon about this directly.  Sometimes they will allow sponge bathing.  I hope that this helps and again I would encourage you to call your Plastic Surgeon.

How do I wash under my armpits for days after breast reduction surgery?

Answers (2)