Post Surgery Bra's After Breast Implant Removal?

Question

Dear Dr's, I'm having my breast implants removed this summer, with no replacement. I see, from this site, that some ladies have been advised to wear a compression garment, others a sports bra, and others neither. I was wondering which is best to wear? Does it depend on the individual and our own surgeon? And if possible, could you tell me why compression is important for healing? Thank you. My implants are the dreaded pips, 290cc, sub-muscular, taking me from an A to a C/D. Had them for 6 years.

Nana N. Mizuguchi, MD, FACS · Answer

Wearing compression following removal of implants should help the excess skin to redrape and decrease the possibility of seroma forming. A seroma is a fluid filled pocket that forms between the skin and muscle after an implant is removed. Some surgeons may use a drain to keep the pocket clear for about a week and others may not use a drain. Also, it depends on the laxity of your skin. If you have exess, thin, fragile skin, it is likely it will not redrape very well. I have seen women do very well without a mastopexy (lift) after removal and some women chose to hae a breast lift to raise the nipple and rid the excess skin. I would advise consulting with 2 or 3 reputable, Board Certified Plastic Surgeons, and follow with the doctorwith whom you feel most comfortable.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

While I would always recommend deferring to your surgeon's recommendations, in my practice the recommendation is for a snug fitting sports bra or compression garment for 4-6 weeks post op. This will support the tissue and mitigate risks of fluid accumulation in the old implant pocket.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS)

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

The #compression #bra acts as a “dressing,” holding the breasts in position. If the bra feels too tight or hurts, switch immediately to sports type bra that feels comfortable. You should wear the bra at all times for at least three weeks. You will probably be more comfortable if you do not wear an underwire bra but you should always wear support.  It is always recommended to call and see your surgeon to discuss your concerns as each has their own post-op suggestions based on each patient's individual situation.

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

The post-operative management
following breast implant removal varies from patient to patient and depends
upon a multitude of variables.In most
cases, the decision to use a compressive sports bra is dependent upon
intraoperative factors.When removal of
implants is associated with extensive dissections, both drains and compression
may be indicated.In the vast majority of patient’s, we don’t use a
compressive support bra in the post-operative period.There are exceptions but these are rare.In most cases, we place our patient’s in a
compressive ACE-wrap dressing which applies mild pressure to the area.This helps minimize pain, swelling, and
patient discomfort.It also decreases
the potential for seroma formation and helps remodel the tissue.The vast majority of patient’s are then switched to a
sports bra one week after surgery.They
wear this bra for about six weeks and in most cases are able to switch to an under
wire bra at that time.It’s important to
realize that every patient’s situation is unique.For this reason, the management of
compression garments needs to be individualized.

Vivek Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The advice of your surgeon is very important, and the reason for compression is to prevent fluid accumulation separating the tissue and preventing healing. If you got 6 years out of the pips, you did well as the life span of saline implants is 5-10 years. They had a good idea with a no valve implant, but many barely made it a year or a little longer and ultimately failed. Listen to your surgeon, and ask questions when you have them. I hope this helps.

Heather Vande Ven, DO · Answer

After breast implant removal surgery, wearing a supportive bra is important for comfort and to aid in the healing process. Here are some considerations for choosing post-surgery bras after breast implant removal:
1.	Comfort: Look for bras made from soft, breathable fabrics that won't irritate your incision sites. Seamless bras or those with minimal seams can help prevent rubbing and discomfort.
2.	Support: Choose bras with good support to help minimize swelling and promote healing. Bras with wide, adjustable straps and a supportive underband can provide the necessary support without putting pressure on the incisions.
3.	Compression: Some surgeons recommend wearing compression bras or garments after breast implant removal surgery to help reduce swelling and promote tissue healing. These bras provide gentle compression to the chest area and can help improve comfort during the recovery process.
4.	Front Closure: Bras with front closure may be easier to put on and take off, especially in the immediate post-operative period when mobility may be limited.
5.	Size: Your breast size and shape may change after breast implant removal, so it's essential to choose bras that fit well and provide adequate coverage and support. Avoid bras with underwire during the initial recovery period, as they may cause discomfort or interfere with healing.
6.	Consultation with Surgeon: Always follow your plastic surgeon's post-operative instructions regarding bra wear and any other aspects of your recovery. They can provide specific recommendations based on your individual situation and surgical technique.
Ultimately, the best post-surgery bra after breast implant removal will depend on your personal preferences, comfort level, and the guidance of your plastic surgeon. Be sure to choose bras that offer the support and comfort you need during the recovery process.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The use of compression after surgery does vary by surgeon and individual patient.  Its purpose is to not only provide support to the tissues as they heal, but also to help prevent fluid accumulation in the space that was once occupied by the implants.  Your surgeon will advise what is best for you.

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

I would honor your surgeon's recommendations over ours, since your surgeon will have seen you and will know exactly what was done. 

	I usually prefer a standard surgical bra, and use some "surgipads" to provide compression and decrease the chances of fluid collection. 

	Thanks for your question, best wishes for a speedy recovery.

John Silverton, MD, FRCS · Answer

There are no rules on the use of bra or no bra or tight dressings after surgery. Every surgeon has his/her own preference.

	When there are many options that usually means that one method has not been conclusively shown to be better than any other. This often applies to other choices in life, too.

	My personal preference is usually a comfortable sports bra that opens in the front for convenience when changing dressings.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Your plastic surgeon will obviously have preferences and recommendations for you. Personally, I like the use of relatively snug fitting bra over compressive dressings immediately after surgery. I think that this compression is helpful when it comes to avoidance of fluid accumulation in the space where the breast implants were removed from. Afterwards, a formfitting sports bra may be helpful when it comes to the support provided during the skin “bounce back” process.

Best wishes; hopefully you will be very pleased with the outcome of the procedure performed.

Best wishes; hopefully you will be very pleased with the outcome of the procedure performed.

Post Surgery Bra's After Breast Implant Removal?

Answers (11)

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