Why are underwire bras not recommended after breast augmentation?

Question

I got my boobs done a week ago and today while I was at my checkup, I asked my surgeon about when I can resume wearing a normal bra. He said I should never resume wearing an underwire bra and it is only acceptable for a night out or a few short hours. Why is this the case?

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

Underwire bras place pressure on the skin and in the early postoperative period can affect the healing or the shape of the breast.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,There are some who feel that underwire is unhealthy for the lymphatic system. I advise my patients that they can resume wearing underwire bras if they wish at 8 months post op, allowing ample time for the implant pocket to heal. IMF incisions can become irritated and have difficulty healing if underwire is worn before the incisions are well-healed. I recommend that you ask your Plastic Surgeon about their recommendations as they pertain to you.All the best

George Volpe, MD · Answer

There are times when a surgeon may recommend that one not wear an underwire bra for a period of time after breast augmentation surgery. For example, if an incision is used in the crease under the breast, an underwire could apply unwanted pressure on the incision before it is fully strong which could cause issues. Discuss various garments with your surgeon. Remember, a recommendation for one patient by a specific surgeon may not be the same for another of his or her patients as each patient is treated individually.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

These bras can place excessive pressure on the lower pole of the breast impinging on an incision or causing contour irregularities.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for this interesting enquire.In my practice after Any Breast Plastic Surgeries (Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift, Breast Reduction, Breast Symmetrization or Breast Reconstruction) i always reconmend using a therapeutic post-op bra, at least for a month and a half after surgery as it forms a mold that controls swelling evenly, avoiding post-op breasts deformities, and avoiding pain and helps to reduce breast swelling.In this regard, in Breast Augmentation the bra allow the formation of the physiological capsule around the implant. Respectfully,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Nana N. Mizuguchi, MD, FACS · Answer

In most circumstances I allow my patients to buy bra with underwire.  I have personally never purchased a bra but I understand it is very hard to find any bra without an underwire especially if you have a large cup size.  I let them change from sports bra to a regular (underwire) bra at for 4 weeks during the day.Every surgeon's surgical technique may vary so I will defer to your surgeon in your circumstance.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.

Having said that, I have actually never heard such a thing before. Once your
breast implants have settled into a natural position, wearing any type of bra
you like is fine. That includes an underwire. My patients wear no bras, no
strapes, 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, but once
settled, you should be able to wear underwires as long as they are comfortable.

I hope you found this helpful. As always, ask your PS first about any
questions. Have a great day.

James E. Hardy, MD · Answer

Hello, excellent question. Many surgeons have personal preferences regarding this topic. There are several approaches to the placement of the breast implant and this can influence the choice of bra. In most I have my patients that have incisions in the fold under the breast wear bras with no underwire for the first 8 weeks after surgery. The most important thing for you to do is contact you surgeon and see what he/she recommends. Be well...

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, there.  Congratulations on your recent breast augmentation.  Plastic surgeons can differ in our surgical technique and post-operative instructions.  Once your incisions are healed and implants have settled in the pocket, you should be able to wear underwire bra.  Best regards.

Wendell Perry, MD · Answer

After breast augmentation the implant pocket is not stable. There is no scar tissue to keep the implant in its proper location. If you push the implant to the wrong location it can heal in the wrong location and permanently be displaced. A bra can easily displace implant and make it heal in the wrong place.

Why are underwire bras not recommended after breast augmentation?

Answers (13)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

Are my breasts saggy/ptotic?

Why do I look so small? (Photo)

Surgical tape left possible scar on face and cleavage? (photos)

I have 34A breast size, I want to know after putting 350cc silicone under muscle ,what will be my size approximately?

Ciprofloxacin HCL after breast augmentation?

Is severe burning pain normal after a Breast Augmentation. Any suggestions? (photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS