Best Garments and Gadgets for Recovery from Breast Augmentation?

Question

Since my last breast augmentation 20 years ago, it appears that many new post-op items have come onto the market including: compression bras with "breast enhancers", velcro breast bands to help implants drop, memory foam bed wedges, petal shaped ice packs made specifically for the breast, arnica and bromelin supplements to reduce swelling- and many more. Out of ALL of these items, what are the BEST post-op garments and gadgets to invest in? Any items that truly stand out with your patients?

Richard H. Fryer, MD · Answer

Gadgets are gadgets.  If you don't have a good operation to begin with then no matter what you invest in it will not help.  If you start with a quality operation then I don't think it matters what you use.

	My patients experience a very rapid recovery and about 25% never take any pain medication other than Ibuprofen and Tylenol and it has NOTHING to do with what is done after the surgery as far as bandaging.  It has EVERYTHING to do with technique.  I lose less than 3-5 ml of blood for the ENTIRE procedure, so I don't need to give people herbal medications to decrease bruising and swelling because my patients don't get as much to begin with.

	Invest in a good surgeon -- don't invest in the gadgets and gimmicks to make up for poor surgery.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

I normally just recommend a good sports bra or other good supportive bra to wear after breast augmentation surgery as well as, in some cases, a tensor bandage wrapped around the top portion of the breasts.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

The best garments depend on your anatomy. The best compression garment may be none acoording to some surgeons who prefer to minimzie compression and strongly encourage movement after surgery. However, patients with significant asymmetry may derive tremendous benefits from the use of these garments in the post operative period.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

For garments, consider a supportive surgical bra with front closure to minimize movement and provide comfort during the recovery from breast augmentation. Compression garments can also help reduce swelling. As for gadgets, a wedge-shaped pillow can provide comfortable elevation while sleeping. Additionally, a handheld showerhead can make bathing more convenient. Always follow your surgeon’s recommendations for optimal results.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I am not a big fan of bands and I have not toys to offer patients. I recommend a soft bra just to hold some dressing, and then recommend massage for most patients..

Best Garments and Gadgets for Recovery from Breast Augmentation?

Answers (6)