What size surgical bra and why?

Question

I would like to have a “back up” for when I’m washing the other, and just some variety : How do I determine the size of surgical bra? I generally wear a 32C, I just measured my under bust/rib cage and it’s 29.5 I’m 5’9” and around 135 pounds, told I have lots of my own breast tissue. Getting 475cc Sientra. I will be sent home with one, how do I choose what size to buy? Do I want it tight or loose? Why? I have my BA in less than one month.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! You should direct this question to your plastic surgeon. Everyone uses different bras, sizes, etc. and you want to make sure you are doing what your surgeon recommends. Best of luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Gentle102632,every surgeon has a preferred type of bra that they let their patients wear after breast augmentation, as this would depend on various factors like the type of surgery performed and the size of the implant used. You should discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon and follow his or her advice. 
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Sean T. Lille, MD · Answer

Dear Gentle, We allow our patients to purchase more than one bra from us if they desire. Ask your doctor's office to either tell you where to get another or to allow you to buy an extra bra. All the best!

Warren Schutte, MD · Answer

A wonderful post surgical bra is the Fruit of the Loom Front Closure Sports Bra. You can find these on amazon. They are a very forgiving fit. I would recommend you order a 34 and a 36. Our patients also appreciate these for nightly 'sleeper' bras.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Soft elastic, support bra would be the best option; any kind of sport bra would serve the purpose. Do not buy anything "special" et least 3 months after surgery. It is best to ask your surgeon about post surgery bra. Hope this helps.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to speak with your surgeon who may be able to allow you to purchase a second surgical bra.  Sports bras that are supportive, but not too tight are also an option.  Initially you will be swollen from surgery, but you may find that you need a different size as things begin to settle.  Having more than one size on hand may be beneficial.  Your surgeon should be able to help guide you.

Peter Andolina, DO · Answer

I would recommend that you purchase 1 or 2 back up sports bras after your surgery.  They provide similar support to a surgical bra and are comfortable and easy for patients to put on and wear.  Try to get ones that zipper close in the front as opposed to ones that you need to put on over your head.  You typically want the post-op bra/garment to be on the tighter or snug side because compression is important after surgery.  In regards to size you may want to consider buying a few garments in different sizes and keep the tags on until you choose the right size.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

First, you should ask your implanting surgeon.  They may be able to charge you for a second bra.
We size the patients post augmentation and choose the correct sized bra depending on both size, and  bra manufacturer (each bra company makes them differently-some smaller, some larger, also depends on the type of fabric).  I like my bras to be medium tight (not loose or too tight).
If submuscular, I also use an ace bandage above the level of the nipples to push the implants down for two weeks.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Every surgeon has his/her preference of surgical bras and many supply those to their patients. Please ask your doctor's nurse about bras.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.

Based on the size of the breast implant that you have chosen my guess is you will be fitted with a large post surgical bra.  However it is best to ask your plastic surgeon what he or she prefers.

You may also ask your surgeon if an extra surgical bra can be provided at the time of your surgery so you will have a second one to where when you are washing the first.  We frequently do this in the operating room in my practice.

Generally speaking we try to provide a bra that gives you support to help keep you comfortable following your surgery.  The bra should be supportive so that your breasts do not move excessively but not so tight as to be uncomfortable.

What size surgical bra and why?

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