When can I stop wearing a bra at night after my breast reduction?

Question

I've had my surgery over three weeks ago, slight swelling, very little bruising and no scabbing left, I'm healed and ready to go mentally, but I used to love taking my bra off at night. When can I do this, and go back to a somewhat normal routine? I am doing great, from ddd to C, or smaller when swelling subsides. They are shaped nice already:)

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

There is no “standard” when it comes to the use of specific bras or garments after breast surgery. In other words, different plastic surgeons may have different practices when it comes to postoperative dressings/bras. 
In my practice, patients wake up with a surgical bra in place. This surgical bra, although not attractive, is supportive and used for about one month after surgery (some of my patients have been known to burn the bra ASAP). Then, patients transition to a soft sports bra. Wired bras are used when breast have reached their “final position” and patients have full sensation along the breast skin.

Generally, the longer I have been in practice, the more I appreciate the long term use of supportive bras  after all types of breast surgery.  This additional support may be especially helpful when patients are lying down and/or engaged in strenuous exercise.  Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. In my opinion, after a #breastreduction, it is best to wear the bra 24 hours each day until released
by the doctor. Each #BoardCertified #Plasticsurgeon has their own preference and protocol. I suggest checking with your plastic surgeon. Best Wishes!

Emese Kalnoki, MD · Answer

It is best to follow the advice and suggestions of your plastic surgeon when asking about post operative care.  He or she knows intimately the procedure that they performed and the correct  post operative course to take.  I generally tell my patients to wear a post operative bra for about 6 weeks after their reduction surgery.  It often helps with the swelling. That being said, there is no right answer to this because each individual is different.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello, thanks for your question and provided information as well. is too early to leave the post surgical bra. In the immediate
post-operative period a compression bra offers significant advantages for wound
healing. Compression minimizes discomfort, swelling, pain, seroma formation,
hematoma formation and wound breakdown. In addition, it provides support to the
wound closure and helps shape the breast.We place all of our
patients in a compression support bra before they leave the operating room.
This is continued from 2 to 3 months following surgery. At this point,
patients are switched into a sports bra without an underwire for an additional
three months.I recommend to always keep a closely communication 
with your plastic surgeon, he will give the best recommendations for 
your recovery time.Good luck :)

When can I stop wearing a bra at night after my breast reduction?

Answers (4)

Answer: Post surgical bra

Answer: Post surgical bra

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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When can I stop wearing a bra at night after my breast reduction?

Answers (4)

Answer: Post surgical bra

Answer: Post surgical bra

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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