When is it okay to buy new bras after breast augmentation?

Question

I know that it can take up to 6 months for your implants to settle, but is the size constant? Am I safe to buy new bras right after my surgery?

Jeffrey Rockmore, MD · Answer

I would recommend checking with your doctor to confirm when you can stop wearing your surgical bra and switch into something new. For my patients, I have them wear a surgical bra (which we provide) for the first week. After that, they can switch to a sports bra for about 6 weeks. At that time, they can start wearing underwire again which is also when I would recommend investing in new bras. Best of luck with your recovery.

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

Hi cahlincb,  I usually tell my patients to wait at least 3 months before buying an expensive bra; however, if the hospital bra that is given to our patients right after surgery is too uncomfortable, I suggest that they buy a bra that gives good support, is NOT an underwire if the incision lies in the inframammary fold, and one that is not too expensive. The breast size can vary as the swelling goes down. The larger the new breast, the longer ti will take for the breast size to decrease.I personally do not like sports bras as they lose support for the breasts after a few weeks. The best thing to do is to check with your PS.Best,Dr. Christine Rodgers

Benjamin Mandel, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I generally recommend that patients wait 2-3 months prior to buying new bras after breast augmentation. My suggestions are based on individual physical exam findings, healing and settling. You should want to discuss specifics with your surgeon at your next appointment. Bets of luck!

Michelle Spring, MD, FACS · Answer

Great question, I hear this often.  I tell my patients to wait two - three months prior to spending a lot of money on a nice new bra.  A bra purchased too soon after breast augmentation might still fit at two - three months, but it typically will not fit as well or be as comfortable.  Good luck!Sincerely,Dr. Michelle Spring

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

My recommendation is to buy a few sports or supportive bras at four to six weeks. There may still be some slight shifting and changing for about six months. At that point you might safely go on a lingerie shopping spree with a professional bra fitter.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cahlincb,I would suggest you to wait 4-6 weeks before you buy new bras. You don't want to spend your money on the wrong size.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Farah Naz Khan, MD · Answer

I typically advise my patients to wait a good 2-3 months after surgery before investing in an expensive bra because the fit will change as the swelling subsides and the implants drop and settle some. However, if you want to buy a bra right after surgery, just know that it will most likely not fit in a couple of weeks. Good luck!

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

I tell my patients that it is safe to buy bras that will continue to fit well at about three weeks status post augmentation. There is minimal swelling and the implants have largely assumed new shape.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Hello thank you for your recent question.  At this point it is safe to buy new bras.  Happy bra shopping!

Audrey A. Klenke, MD, FACS · Answer

Most patients experience swelling after surgery that subsides over time and the swelling can add to the size of your breasts, so sometimes purchasing bras (which can be expensive) too early can lead to frustration. I would suggest waiting 8-12 weeks before investing in new bras and you may want to start with one to make sure that size is working before purchasing multiples. Keep tags and receipts just in case! Good luck and congratulations on the new you.

When is it okay to buy new bras after breast augmentation?

Answers (12)

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