I had a breast lift with no implants 3 months ago. Will I always have to wear an underwire bathing suit?

Question

I've always worn underwire bras and will continue to do so, but finding underwire bathing suits is sometimes difficult.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jkwasn,I understand your concern. However, every surgeon has a specific technique or management on how to go about wearing post-operative bras, as this would depend on various factors including the type of surgery, the size of implant, and the technique used during the surgery among others. It is best that you discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon and follow his or her advice on the best options available for you. Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! You cannot wear a bra with underwire for the first 6 weeks after surgery.  After that it is your choice to wear one or not! Make sure you are following all of your Plastic Surgeons instructions for post op! Best of luck!Dr Dhaval Patel Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon OakbrookOrland ParkHoffman EstatesChicago

Amir Nakhdjevani, MBBS, MRCS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Normal after 6 weeks after breast surgery you can wear underwire bras.  This doesn't mean you have to wear a bra all the time.  Your breasts will behave the same without support, your skin will lose skin elasticity depending on your genetics and collagen.  You can wear which ever swimming suit you wish too.  All The Best and Enjoy Your Holiday.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Of course you are free to wear any type of swim top you choose, but even after your breast lift, your breast skin is still the same in terms of genetic makeup, collagen content, and elasticity (or lack thereof) as before your lift surgery. Thus, over time and with aging, your remaining breast skin will continue to (re)stretch and (re)sag to some degree.You have wisely chosen to wear underwire brassieres for support of your breasts, and would be smart to continue to do so. But you don't HAVE to, and you can choose to not buy underwire bathing suits. But use underwires the remainder of the time. Even if you're a beach/river/pool rat who "lives" on the water, I suspect your "regular clothes" time exceeds your swim suit time. Good compromise. You can still choose anything you wish, but supporting the skin you were born with remains a good idea for longest-lasting results! Don't worry; I still suspect you'll have the best breasts in the nursing home someday! Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

After a breast lift, wearing an underwire bathing suit is not permanent requirement, but it can offer additional support, especially in the months following surgery as your breasts continue to heal and settle. Over time, as your breast tissue heals fully, you may have more flexibility with the type of bathing suits you wear. 
Many women eventually feel comfortable wearing non-underwire bathing suits, especially if the lift has provided the desired firmness and contour. However, for some, underwire options can continue to offer better shape and support. It’s always a good idea to follow your surgeon’s recommendations for post-surgery support to ensure optimal results and comfort. 
Consult with your surgeon on the proper support for your situation as underwire is to be avoided for some time after breast surgery.

Juan Quintero, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. If you had a straight forward lift without implants you can resume wearing an underwire bra after 6 weeks. That is that you don't have any irritation, openings, or complications. Best of luck

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

There are many types of swim tops to wear.  Try on different ones to see what works for you.  Happy Summer!

I had a breast lift with no implants 3 months ago. Will I always have to wear an underwire bathing suit?

Answers (7)

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