Surgical bra hurts too much to wear. Is this normal? (photos)

Question

It hurts so much I struggle to breathe when walking. It's been giving me marks! I also have to wear a tight band above to push the implants down. How long do I have to wear this everyday, and do I really have to wear this or can I just wear a sports bra?

Anthony P. Terrasse, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It sounds as if you are extremely uncomfortable. If your pain is present only in the bra, it propbably makes sense to get a slightly larger bra. If you are in pain all the time, call your individual board certified plastic surgeon and have him or her evaluate you. It is always appropriate to contact your plastic surgeon. Let them know about the discomfort you are experiencing, and they can examine you and fit you with a better bra if necessary. Good luck!
Anthony P. Terrasse, MD

Aaron Capuano, MD, FACS · Answer

In my opinion, It is best to give your surgeon a call regarding this question.  Most surgeons will check the fit of the bra during initial post operative appointments.  We like to see good support but nothing too tight.  It seems you may have an area that the stitches may be rubbing against or too tight up top, along the upper pole of your breasts, this may be the cause for your concern as well.  It wouldn’t be a good time to move into a sports bra without your surgeon agreeing it is time for that because the sports bra can move the breasts in a direction that you or your surgeon may not want and put pressure on parts of your breast that could cause compromise to your results.  I am sure together you will figure out a better solution. Thank you for the question, I hope this answer helps you toward continued recovery.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I place my ladies in a sports bra after surgery, but every surgeon has his/her preference for bras. Before doing anything, please call your surgeon's office and let them know your discomfort. You just may need a larger size.

David A. Sieber, MD, FACS · Answer

Your surgeon put you in quite the contraption! I don't think I've ever seen anything like that before! I typically have my patients in a surgical bra or sports bra after surgery and let them wear whichever is more comfortable. If the bra is causing you discomfort, I'd give you surgeon a call to see if you can not wear it for a bit or change to something more comfortable. Best,~Dr. Sieber

Anthony J. Taglienti, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Each plastic surgeon has his or her own post-operative management. If the bra is giving you that much discomfort I suggest you speak directly with your surgeon and see if alternative garments can be worn. A garment should provide support; not pain or extreme discomfort. Best of luck!

Surgical bra hurts too much to wear. Is this normal? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Surgical bra

Answer: Surgical bra

Answer: Surgical Garment issues

Answer: Surgical Garment issues

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Surgical bra hurts too much to wear. Is this normal? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Surgical bra

Answer: Surgical bra

Answer: Surgical Garment issues

Answer: Surgical Garment issues

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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