How long do I need to wear a surgical bra after a breast lift without implants? When can I start shopping for new bras?

Question

How long do I need to wear the surgical bra after my surgery?

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It depends on your surgeon. They should have included that information in your post-op instructions. Generally, I advise my patients to continue wearing a surgical bra for about 3-4 weeks, 24/7. Wait for the majority of swelling to subside before you go bra shopping. This should be in about 4-6 months after surgery.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Short answer: ask your surgeon, for it is to him or her you will need to go to if there is a problem related to "wrong" bra or bra irritation and breakdown of incisions.Longer answer: there is nothing innately "special" about so-called "surgical" bras except that they are usually designed to not have irritating underwires, no excessive pressure points to "mold" the breasts, gentle and uniform compression of the healing tissues, (and usually higher cost and no style). So if you have a bra that meets those criteria (and your surgeon agrees), shop now (or when your incisions have healed and sealed so they are no longer bleeding or draining)--that just ruins good bras! You may also want to read one of my most popular answers about bra wearing (click on the web reference link below). Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

I would recommend that you discuss this question with your surgeon as every surgeon has their own respective post op protocol for his/her patients.  Your surgeon is your best resource as he/she is most familiar with your medical history and how you are healing at this time.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

#RealSelf100Surgeon

Steven Vath, MD · Answer

I would defer to your surgeon's recommendation, however, in my practice, I am comfortable with my patients switching to a bra of their choice at any time - although typically anything with an underwire will likely not be comfortable for 2-4 weeks post op. The bra you wear will not affect your surgical result long term.

Peter Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

The simple answer to your question is that a patient should wear a surgical bra until the breasts have assumed their final position and shape.  Generally, this process can take up to six weeks, but may be faster or slower in individual cases.  We generally have our patients continue to wear their surgical bra for at least 2 weeks, before they can switch to a supportive bra of their own choosing without an underwire.  The final time point at which they can resume wearing an underwire bra is determined by their surgeon based on their breast aesthetics and comfort with the underwire.

Michael Brucker, MD · Answer

Always check with your surgeon for his/her instructions but I have my patients wear their post-surgical bra for 2 weeks after surgery and for the next 4 weeks they can switch to a moderately supportive soft cup bra. Underwire bras should not be worn for at least 6 weeks after surgery.

Clayton L. Moliver, MD · Answer

In my practice, I have my patients wear their bra for at least 6 weeks, however, surgeons have different techniques when performing procedures and much of their after care instructions are based on that. So my recommendation is to ask your surgeon.