What is the best bra to sleep in that provides good lateral support?

Question

I am almost 7 wks postop and am trying to find the best bra to sleep in that will provide good lateral support while sleeping on my back. I am still sleeping in my surgical bra but find that it doesn't have good side support. I have tried VS sports bras and they don't feel like they fit right. I bought the Under Armour zip front but don't feel like it has great side support either. I'm starting to get frustrated that there aren't many options for side support. I'm currently a 32DDD.

Farah Naz Khan, MD · Answer

Just remember that your implants may still drop and settle some so best not to invest in expensive bras at this point. I recommend my patients try on several styles and choose whichever feels most comfortable. Only invest in expensive bras 4-6 months out when you can see your final results.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

This is a very individual question that will vary between women. The best thing to do is try on a number of different bras and see which one meets the criteria that you are looking for. #PlasticSurgery #BreastAug #Implants #BreastImplants #brashopping #perfectbra

Rita Sadowski, MD · Answer

Thank you so much for your question.  I answer this question a lot, both for women with breast augmentation, as well as for women seeking breast reduction.  To understand the answer, I started making bras myself.  Below I will share what I have learned with you.The support of the bra mainly comes from the band itself.  Less of the support comes from the cup, and almost none of the support should come from the strap.  While you are healing from a surgery, you will want to avoid any metal or plastic wires, as this will poke or rub at the incisions.  After healing, you can choose any bra that feels comfortable to you.Things that will make a bra BAND MORE supportive are the following:1.  A full band (meaning that the fabric goes across the chest under the breast).  If you have a little tab of fabric between the cups, then this isn't a fully banded bra.2.  Non-stretch material in the center of the band in the front.  I know, we all think stretchy is the way to find comfort, but if you aren't being supported, then you will not be comfortable.  If you are checking out two companies with similar styles, less stretch is better.3.  A band that goes lower onto the rib cage.  You may have seen bras that look like mini-corsets.  These bras give greater support.4.  A less elastic back band.  The more stretch you have at the back of the bra, the less supportive it will be. Most back bands are made with power net.  You want it to stretch something between 20% and 40% to get good support.  If you can stretch the back and increase the length by more than this, you are losing support.5.  Lateral support bars.  This is seen at the side seam, and is a vertical bar of either plastic or spiral metal boning that provides an additional lateral "boost".Things that will make a bra CUP MORE supportive are the following:1.  Non-stretch material, especially along the lateral aspect of the cup.2.  More fabric to cover the breast.3.  A great fit - gaping of the fabric is not good.  If you do not have perfect symmetry between your breasts - and almost no woman does, you can create a "fix" by finding small padding to fill the smaller cup.  Joann Fabrics offers a nice line of bra cups in various sizes and shapes.I really hope that this was helpful for you.  Best wishes in getting that good night's sleep.

Nana N. Mizuguchi, MD, FACS · Answer

I like the sports bra that zips in the front.I recommend sports bra like Under Armour Women's Armour Bra Protégée Sports Bra.  You may already be using this particular bra.Placing a sponge on the side of the bra will help as well.I hope others will suggest more options.Best Wishes,Nana Mizuguchi

Michael J. Brown, MD · Answer

Hi,

Thanks for posting your question. I am happy to try and help you. It is
important to remember that a board certified plastic surgeon will be your best
resource when it comes to an accurate assessment of your situation, and
concerns.

My patients wear no bras, no straps, no ace wraps, nothing for the first 30
days. After that, if they are settled then go for the bra. Some will need a bit
more time to settle. Once your breast implants have settled into a natural
position, wearing any type of bra you like is fine. That includes an underwire.As for names? Brands? I have no suggestions.

Best wishes,

Dr. Michael J. Brown 
Northern Virginia Plastic Surgeon

What is the best bra to sleep in that provides good lateral support?

Answers (7)

Answer: Zips in front

Answer: Zips in front

Answer: Bras after breast augmentation

Answer: Bras after breast augmentation

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What is the best bra to sleep in that provides good lateral support?

Answers (7)

Answer: Zips in front

Answer: Zips in front

Answer: Bras after breast augmentation

Answer: Bras after breast augmentation

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.