Just had an implant removal yesterday. I only had the removal - no lift. Is there any reason why I shouldn't wear a sports bra?

Question

I don't know the specific volumes. I was a 32A and I went to a 32D with my implants. They were saline. The incision was below my breast. My doctor did not direct me to wear any type of compression bandage or bra. However, my breasts are loose and swinging, and it feels uncomfortable. It also seems to go against what most recommend on this forum. I think the bottom will rest against my incisions, but it isn't painful. Thanks!

Luis M. Rios Jr., MD · Answer

You made the big step to remove your implants and without a lift. This is a great question because many patients like to avoid a lift after removal of the implants.The good news is that the breast has the ability to shrink on its own after implants are removed. The amount of shrinkage is unpredictable. Some patients can shrink a lot and some patients may not shrink back at all. I think it’s safe to say that after 6 months you should know what the final results might look like. Very often patients will wait the six months to determine if a breast lift might be a good option. If the breasts shrink back adequately, then they avoid the external scars of a breast lift. I think it’s a logical strategy.As far as compression after removal of implants is concerned, I think most patients will appreciate some sort of support as their breasts go through the “shrinking” process. There is no hard or steadfast rule on what to wear after removal of breast implants, but most patients will feel more comfortable with compression. Compression can come in the form of an ace bandage or very supportive sports bras. Patients might also like to use compression shirts or normal bras. Really, the choice is up to you and what you feel more comfortable with. A little bit of compression may assist the “shrinking” process.The good news is that your breasts should improve in shape after removal of the implant. If you like the shape after six months, then you should be fine. If you feel you might want some skin tightening after 6 months, a breast lift can be considered. The type of compression you wear today should be adjusted to make you feel comfortable and might assist in the “shrinking process”.Good Luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Typically patients will go home with bandages after surgery and compression is recommended for approximately two weeks.  This gives support to the tissues and helps to manage swelling.  I encourage you to reach out to your surgeon for direction.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

hello jrenewill You should visit or contact your plastic surgeon about this concern. #incision #post-op

Ross Blagg, MD · Answer

Hello,I think wearing a sports bra is a good idea as you generally will want some compression. Be sure to talk with your surgeon about this. All the best, Dr. BlaggAustin, TX

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The best advice will come from the PS who removed your saline implants.  My patients like the support and compression the sports bra provides.  The smaller the implant and the less the amount of time it has been since placement, the greater the chance the breasts will return to their preoperative state.  The breasts will likely be flattening and drooping that can be corrected in large part with a breast lift. Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Just had an implant removal yesterday. I only had the removal - no lift. Is there any reason why I shouldn't wear a sports bra?

Answers (8)

Answer: Sports bra after implant removal

Answer: Sports bra after implant removal

Answer: Just had an implant removal yesterday. I only had the removal - no lift. Is there any reason why I shouldn't wear a sports bra?

Answer: Just had an implant removal yesterday. I only had the removal - no lift. Is there any reason why I shouldn't wear a sports bra?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Just had an implant removal yesterday. I only had the removal - no lift. Is there any reason why I shouldn't wear a sports bra?

Answers (8)

Answer: Sports bra after implant removal

Answer: Sports bra after implant removal

Answer: Just had an implant removal yesterday. I only had the removal - no lift. Is there any reason why I shouldn't wear a sports bra?

Answer: Just had an implant removal yesterday. I only had the removal - no lift. Is there any reason why I shouldn't wear a sports bra?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.