Which type of bra to wear after breast implant removal?

Question

I just had my one month old implants removed on Monday (August 10th). It was a simple explant done under local. No removal of capsules, no drains. My PS sent me home in a surgical bra, no tight bandages or anything. I asked the nurse when I could switch to a sports bra and she told me I can wear ANY bra I'm comfortable in. I feel as though they aren't as eager to help since I asked for an explant. How long would you recommend I wait before switching to a regular bra? Thank you!

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

After breast implant removal I find no particular advantage
to the use of surgical bras. In fact, I find that they can do more harm than
good. They hold the skin too high, preventing them from dropping into
position. In addition, they can put pressure on the healing breast or the
wound. They provide no advantage. If the surgery was performed correctly,
external appliances after surgery are unnecessary to achieve the appropriate
final ioutcome. At one month we allow the patients to wear a soft cup bra
with no underwire.  At two months, they can wear any bra with a wire
without push up.  Before three months it is not wise to buy a whole new
set of bras.  By six months, the bra size is not going to change.
 You need to try bras on.  Being measured is almost never productive
and almost always oversizes.  Find the ones that you like the way they
fit.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

After initial bandages are removed I typically have patients wear compression for about two weeks.  This can vary by patient.  Compression helps the tissues to heal and prevent seroma formation.  A supportive bra is always a good idea.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  As post-surgical bras are often loose fitting, I would recommend finding a supportive sports bra, or similar undergarment, that supplies a bit of compression to your breast tissue, while taking pressure off your incision location.  The compression will aid in shrinking your breast skin as well as preventing the potential for a fluid collection to develop. I know that you feel your surgeon's office was not very eager to help, but try to keep up an open line of communication, they do want you to feel taken care of and respected.

Stuart A. Linder, MD, FACS · Answer

There are several excellent post-surgical bras available. After having performed thousands of breast surgeries, including explanation I created the Dr. LinderBra. It allows comfort and compression at the same time. Dr.Linderbra.com

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I recommend that my patient wear a sports bra for about a month, then they may wear what they would like.

Which type of bra to wear after breast implant removal?

Answers (5)