Many of you have opted for breast surgery, a reduction or an augmentation. Once this operation is done, it is highly recommended to use good post-operative bras.

What is a post-operative bra?

It is a bra that is worn in the months following breast surgery. Whether it is implants, mastectomy (necessary during breast cancer screening), an augmentation, a reduction of your chest, or any operation concerning your chest, it is essential to cocoon it for a better post-reconstruction recovery and optimal comfort.

Indeed after breast surgery, pain occurs and it must be minimized. Your surgeon may advise you to do regular massage exercises to relieve them and especially to wear suitable clothing and a bra: a post-operative bra.

Why wear a post-operative bra?

A post-operative bra is not mandatory, but highly recommended by most surgeons and experts. A post-operative bra can offer you many benefits, such as:

• Reducing pain and swelling: A post-operative bra can gently and evenly compress your breasts, which can help reduce pain and swelling after surgery.
• Promoting healing and scarring: A post-operative bra can protect your wounds from friction and bacteria, which can promote healing and scarring.
• Supporting your new breasts: A post-operative bra can hold your breasts firmly in place and prevent them from sagging or moving too much, which can help them adapt to their new size and shape.
• Enhancing your comfort and confidence: A post-operative bra can provide you with comfort and confidence during your recovery period. You can feel more secure and comfortable in your clothes and in your body.

How long to wear a post-operative bra?

The duration of wearing a post-operative bra depends on several factors, such as:

• The type of surgery: Different types of surgery may require different recovery times. For example, a breast reduction may take longer to heal than a breast augmentation.
• The advice of your surgeon: Your surgeon may give you specific instructions on how long to wear a post-operative bra depending on your individual case. You should always follow their advice and consult them if you have any doubts or questions.
• Your personal comfort: You may also decide to wear a post-operative bra based on your personal comfort and preference. You may want to wear it longer if you feel more comfortable and supported in it, or switch to a regular bra sooner if you feel ready.

In general, most surgeons recommend wearing a post-operative bra for at least 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. However, this may vary depending on each person.

How to choose a post-operative bra?

Choosing a post-operative bra is not always easy, as there are many models and brands available on the market. However, there are some criteria that you can consider when choosing a post-operative bra, such as:

• Size: You should measure your bust and band size before and after your surgery to find the right fit. You may need to adjust your size as your swelling goes down or your implants drop.
• Style: You should choose a style that suits your preference and your type of surgery. For example, you may want a compression bra that holds your breasts firmly in place after a reduction, or a seamless bra that contours your breasts smoothly after an augmentation.
• Quality: You should choose a quality bra that is durable, comfortable, and easy to care for. You may want to invest in several bras so you can rotate them and wash them regularly.

Where to buy a post-operative bra?

You can buy a post-operative bra from various sources, such as:

• Your surgeon: Your surgeon may provide you with a post-operative bra or recommend a specific brand or model that works best for your surgery.
• Online stores: You can find a wide range of post-operative bras online from different brands and retailers. You can compare prices, reviews, and features easily and conveniently.
• Physical stores: You can also find post-operative bras in physical stores such as lingerie shops, department stores, or specialty stores. You can try on different bras and get advice from the staff.

Under what clothing to wear a post-operative bra?

Absolutely everything, they are designed so that you can wear them in all circumstances and fortunately. In dress, loose t-shirt or V-neck sweater, your post-operative bra will blend perfectly under your clothes.

When can I wear a classic bra again?

Let’s face it, the post-operative bra is rarely very refined but you have to tell yourself that it’s only temporary and especially for your well-being. It is also difficult to find sets of postoperative underwear (panties, postoperative bras) but this should not be a reason to fail to wear this medical device.

Only the opinion of your doctor will count, this may vary from one woman to another depending on the operation you have performed. The waiting period generally amounts to three months, during this period the pressure of the underwires could cause permanent waves. Favor non-wired postoperative bras.

The postoperative attitudes to adopt

• A shower is recommended the day after the operation.
• Resumption of professional activities takes place between 3 and 10 days.
• Stopping sports from the upper body is recommended for one to two months. Avoid carrying heavy loads during this same period. For the first six weeks do not carry any load over 5 kilos, the permitted weight may vary depending on the intervention you have undergone.
• The best rehabilitation whatever your intervention remains walking provided you go gradually. Alternate phases of walking and rest. Especially at first.
• Do not expose your scars to the sun during the first months following the operation.
• Prevent caregivers from possibly avoiding injections, perfusion, blood tests, vaccine. Likewise avoid compressions, blood pressure measurements on the operated side.
• The big gestures of arms are to be avoided (do not raise them higher than the shoulders) and breastfeeding becomes impossible in most cases.
• If you want beautiful scars it is important to stop smoking (usually one month before surgery and during reconstruction for one month as well).
• Regular monitoring of your chest by a gynecologist and surgeon once a year. Changing breast implants should be done every ten years.