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.