While Healing After a Breast Reduction & Lift, Can I Sleep Without a Surgical Bra?

It’s
important to realize that no two patients are ever exactly alike.For this reason, post-operative management
following breast reduction surgery varies from patient to patient.We generally recommend that patients
wear a compressive support bra following this procedure.This bra is worn day and night for three
weeks.The majority of patients have no
difficulty tolerating its use.Patients
are then switched to a sports bra for an additional six weeks.At this point patients are allowed to return
to a regular bra, but underwire bras are avoided until wound healing is
complete.Although it’s probably reasonable to
intermittently remove your compression bra for short periods of time, leaving
your bra off for extended periods of time could adversely affect healing.For this reason it’s important to wear a
compressive bra at night while sleeping.Patients who undergo breast
reduction surgery can expect swelling and discomfort following this
procedure.In an effort to decrease
swelling, most surgeons utilize compression garments in the post-operative
period.Compression minimizes swelling
and decreases post-operative pain.It
helps to remodel soft tissue and contributes significantly to the contour
improvement seen with this procedure.

Post op regimens will vary. Most will recommend support in the early peri-operative period. Daytime use is more important than evening use. However, many will recommend 2-3 weeks of around the clock usage.Ultimately, gravity is undefeated. The more external support given the less effect gravity will have over time.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

It's a great question for your surgeon. Make sure to follow your surgeon's instructions closely, because this will give best results. In my office, it is okay to remove your bra when sleeping, but I find that the bra is supportive in many women find it more comfortable.

Every doctor has different post op instructions so you should ask your surgeon what would work for you. The dressings vary from patient to patient. Some patients may be placed in a sports bra; others will wear a stabilizing elastic support strap. Your doctor will decide after surgery and in subsequent weeks, which dressing will suit your needs

Most surgeons develop their own post-operative protocols, based upon what they have found works well for their patients.  Assuming you have already had the procedure, I would recommend that you follow the recommendations of the surgeon whom you trusted to perform the procedure.  If you have not yet undergone your surgery, review post-operative care and activity recommendations with your surgeon prior to having the procedure performed.

My response to your question/post does not represent formal medical advice or constitute a doctor patient relationship. You should continue to see a board-certified plastic surgeon in order to receive formal evaluations and develop/maintain a doctor patient relationship.

Follow whatever your surgeon says in his/her post op instructions. There are surgeons who do not advise ANY compression whatsoever, and others (like myself) are fairly strict about keeping compressed 24/7 for the first 4-6 weeks. If there is this much variation in opinion and technique it probably means that all are acceptable, but check with your surgeon first. 

Thank you for your question.

You should communicate with your surgeon to see what he/she recommends in regards to wearing a post surgical bra after breast reduction surgery.

I recommend that patients wear the surgical bra for 3-4 weeks after surgery. It supplies good support for the patient.  I do let patients know that if they need to take a "little break" from the bra every once in a while, it should be fine.

Best Wishes!

Every doctor is different in what they prescribe post-surgery.  You should really check with your surgeon on what instructions they want you to follow after surgery.

Yes, you can go without the bra for a few hours at a time following breast reduction surgery. Earlier on, I would suggest doing this during the day rather than at night. When you are asleep you have less awareness and control over yourself, and may not realize that you are doing damage.

How long ago was your surgery? I am wondering why you want to have it off for a few hours since most patients feel more comfortable with it on for support.  I would make sure that it is not rubbing you anyplace that is causing discomfort. I have seen blisters occur because the bra is pinching or too tight in certain areas.  Sometimes you are numb on the outside of the breasts and cannot tell that you are developing a problem.  In sum, take it off to examine your skin and then follow your surgeon's instructions from there.