Does muscle weakening when wearing a bra apply to people who have had lifts or augmentations?

Question

21yo. 3.5 years post-op breast lift & aug. Does muscle weakening when wearing a bra apply to people who have had lifts or augmentations? I'm curious about being able to go bra-less. Or are my muscles cut through, and I require a bra because I have no muscles capable of being used to maintain their current level of lift, bra-free? My breasts have sagged down passed their pre-op sagginess anyways so I'm trying to prevent further sagging.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cb00,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jon S. Wilensky, MD · Answer

The concept of muscle weakening due to prolonged reliance on bras primarily applies to the muscles that naturally support the breasts, such as the pectoralis major and minor muscles. Wearing a bra for extended periods may lead to a dependence on the bra's support, potentially causing these muscles to weaken over time.However, in the context of breast lift (mastopexy) or breast augmentation surgery, the dynamics are somewhat different. Here's why:1. Breast lift (mastopexy): During a breast lift procedure, excess skin is removed, and the underlying breast tissue is reshaped to lift and reposition the breasts. The surgery does not directly involve manipulation of the chest muscles. Therefore, muscle weakening due to wearing a bra is not a significant concern in this context.2. Breast augmentation: Breast augmentation surgery involves the placement of implants to enhance breast size and shape. While some surgical techniques may involve partial dissection of the pectoral muscles to create a pocket for the implants, this generally doesn't result in significant muscle weakening. The implants themselves provide additional support to the breasts, which may reduce the strain on the surrounding muscles.That said, wearing a supportive bra following breast lift or augmentation surgery is typically recommended during the initial phases of recovery to provide comfort, minimize swelling, and support the healing tissues. However, there is no evidence to suggest that wearing a bra after surgery will lead to muscle weakening, particularly since the surgical changes to the breast structure are not reliant on muscle support in the same way as natural breast suspension.Ultimately, it's essential to follow your plastic surgeon's post-operative instructions regarding bra wear and other aspects of recovery. They can provide guidance based on your specific procedure, anatomy, and individual needs. If you have concerns about muscle weakening or any other aspect of your recovery, be sure to discuss them with your surgeon for clarification and reassurance.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your breast is on top of your chest muscles, so muscles cannot support the weight of your breasts.  Implants placed behind the muscle do get some support, but the muscle still does not completely cover the implants. Don't go braless or you will sag more.

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
When breast implants are inserted in a submuscular plane, the incisions through the muscle are performed in the direction of the muscle fibers which will heal without substantially weakening the upper arms. 
Sagging of the breasts has little to do with the underlying chest musculature. It usually occurs after pregnancy or with significant weight fluctuation where there has been significant change in breast size. There may be stretch marks which indicate the presence of permanently damaged overstretched skin. The skin's dermal elastic fibers rupture, resulting in the loss of elasticity and the development of streaks on the skin surface. The skin will stretch over a greater surface area and will predispose to further sagging. The presence of oversized implants may contribute to this phenomenon. 
Breast support is the best way to limit further sagging. If revision is contemplated, consider a smaller implant at the time of your secondary lift. 
Best wishes...

Does muscle weakening when wearing a bra apply to people who have had lifts or augmentations?

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Does muscle weakening when wearing a bra apply to people who have had lifts or augmentations?

Answers (4)

Answer: Does muscle weakening occur after breast augmentation?

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.