Due for surgery and my surgeon recommends a sports bra over a compression bra. As I've been reading up, is this wrong?

Question

I've read up on these bras and pretty much everywhere I've read that you should use a compression bra? Can anyone help me here pls?

Sean T. Lille, MD · Answer

Dear SJK4425, 
You picked your surgeon for his/her expertise and results (hopefully). Please listen to the instructions given by your surgeon and follow those. Everyone has different opinions and reasons why they like what they like for their patients. 
Best wishes!

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

A sports bra recommendation is not automatically wrong after breast augmentation. Postoperative bra choice depends on the implant pocket, incision, implant position, whether a lift was done, swelling pattern, and the surgeon's closure technique. Some surgeons prefer a soft supportive sports bra; others use more structured compression, a surgical bra, or no bra for a short period.

The important point is that "compression" is not always better. Too much pressure in the wrong direction can irritate incisions, increase discomfort, or influence how the implants settle. Since your surgeon knows exactly what was done and how they want the implants supported, follow their specific protocol unless they change it. If you are unsure, ask what features they want: no underwire, front closure, gentle support, no tight band, or a specific level of compression.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Hi & thanks for your question!
Follow the instructions/guidelines given by your surgeon. If you have any questions or concerns reach out to him or her. Best wishes!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear sjk4425,
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

Neil Tanna, MD, FACS · Answer

Compression garments are specialized post-surgical clothing that aid in the recovery process. They’re made of elastic or cloth materials and facilitate a tight fit, applying constant and uniform pressure over the treatment areas. The garments must be sized according to the contours of your body to ensure a proper fit&mdash;poorly fitting compression garments might be useless or even cause discomfort. Research supporting the efficiency of post-surgical compression garments after breast or abdominal surgery is limited. However, some studies have shown that patients wearing compression garments like bras, girdles, and binders, after breast and abdominal surgeries demonstrate less scarring, swelling, and pain than patients who avoid them. Some studies have shown that compression garments have positive psychological benefits, reducing the patient’s anxiety and increasing mobility.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Each surgeon will have her/his own protocol for post op care.  I encourage you to follow your surgeon's advice.  You may wish to purchase the sports bra prior to surgery and have your surgeon approve it so you can feel comfortable that you will be properly supported after surgery.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You need to do what your surgeon recommends. Every surgeon has his/her preference of bras based on the implant chosen, the procedure done, and experience. Listen to your surgeon.

Due for surgery and my surgeon recommends a sports bra over a compression bra. As I've been reading up, is this wrong?

Answers (7)

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