Finding comfort after breast surgery: A guide to compression bras and postsurgical garments

The words "comfort" and "surgery" do not necessarily go together in the same sentence. It seems like an oxymoron to talk about being comfortable after a surgical procedure. Breast surgery recovery can be a time of soreness, swelling, drainage and overall discomfort for most patients. The thought of wearing a compression garment, let alone strapping on a bra, is probably the furthest thing from a patient's mind.

Breast surgery patients may not realize that specific postsurgical garments serve a crucial recovery function. Understanding how these garments work and what they are supposed to feel like can ease your body and mind into a more comfortable place. When you feel ready to get back into more traditional undergarments and bras, finding enjoyable options can help boost your post-surgery comfort and confidence.

Breast surgery postop step one: Compression garments

Following breast surgery, whether it's an augmentation, lift, reduction or reconstruction, a board-certified plastic surgeon often provides patients with a list of dos and don'ts to help them navigate their postop recovery journey. Step one for many patients involves wearing compression garments. A postop compression garment may resemble a type of sports bra. However, it is a special, medical-grade garment, often made from nylon or elastic. The purpose of this compression bra is to provide gentle and regulated pressure to the surgical site.

"Proper postop garment wear is extremely important to get the best possible result," said Kelly Killeen, MD. "The garments we use allow the areas operated on to be compressed, which avoids fluid collecting and major swelling. They also support the surgical area, like a splint, to allow things to heal with the contour we desire. The skin in the area is more likely to heal in a smooth way without irregularities and hanging when the garment is worn properly."

While wearing a garment designed to place pressure on a surgical area may seem daunting, many patients find that compression garments provide support and comfort during the recovery process.

Breast surgery recovery step two: Staying comfortable

As patients progress through recovery, they may want to try on different garments to find what works best for them.

"Soft bras, 'wireless underwire' bras and often no bra at all are most comfortable," said Karen Horton, MD, MSc, FACS. "Gentle compression, such as a wrap over a tank top, is often comfortable after surgery, especially when nerves are waking up and 'dysesthesias' (abnormal or unpleasant sensations) are common. Bras with bands that extend a little lower than the natural breast fold also feel best since there is often an incision in the fold."

These soft and breathable materials, such as cotton, can be comfortable and prevent skin irritation. Garments with moisture-wicking properties, such as modal or bamboo, can also help keep sensitive skin dry and maximize comfort and air flow.

"Garments that fit properly, and that are reasonably easy to get on and off tend to be the most comfortable," said Dr. Killen. "For bras, I usually recommend soft, breathable fabric, wide band and straps and a racerback for the most comfort. For garments, it's important not to have rough seams against the skin."

Bras or garments with hooks or closures in the back can be challenging to get on and off. Many patients prefer garments with front closures, making it easy to take on and off without help and needing to resort to contortionist-like maneuvers that can cause pain or discomfort after surgery. Garments with wide straps can also help reduce shoulder pain and pressure.

Breast surgery recovery step three: Back to bras

Comfortable? Sure. Fashion forward? Not really. As patients progress through their breast surgery recovery, there comes a point where they want to be comfortable but may be excited to see the results of their procedure in more traditional undergarments.

"Soft bras can be worn any time after surgery, comfort permitting," said Dr. Horton. "They might not fit for a while due to edema (surgical swelling) after liposuction of the axillary rolls (underarm area), however."

Dr. Horton also cautioned women against wearing bras with underwire too soon after surgery.

"No underwire for at least three months," said Dr. Horton. "There is usually an incision in the fold of the breast, and a firm wire there can hurt the healing process and create unnecessary pressure or discomfort. I also recommend waiting a full three months to get properly fitted with new bras or fun lingerie after most breast procedures, so that the final size and shape can be appreciated."

As for getting back into the bras you love, you'll need to wait a little bit.

"Most women can return to their normal bras in about one month," said Dr. Killeen. "The only caveat being that we do recommend avoiding bras without proper support for at least three to six months, typically."

However, you may need to go shopping for new bras to accommodate your new breasts anyway.

"The reason for breast surgery is often to create a different outcome, so old bras are often not needed after surgery," said Dr. Horton.

Going back to your old bras probably isn't going to be an option for many breast surgery patients, whether they have undergone reconstruction or an enlargement with implants. The size, shape and position of a patient's breast changes with surgery, meaning previously worn bras or undergarments may not be appropriate or comfortable.

"We recommend donating gently worn and cleaned bras to a local breast health center," said Dr. Horton.

Next, when you feel ready, it may be time for a shopping trip. However, with your new look, it's essential to avoid falling back into uncomfortable habits. Some studies suggest that as many as 80 percent of women wear the wrong size bra. You want to feel comfortable and confident after surgery. Pulling on a bra that is uncomfortable and doesn't fit defeats the purpose. Wearing a poorly fitting bra may even cause back, shoulder and chest pain.

"Bras can be uncomfortable for many reasons, most of which relate to poor fit," said Dr. Horton. "The band can be too tight, causing discomfort under the breasts and a major bra bulge! Too loose a band causes it to slip upwards and not stay in place. Too-tight straps can cause shoulder grooving or pain, and too-loose straps can fall off the shoulders."

When shopping for new bras to fit the new you, you may need some tips for your search.

"If the cup is too small, the breast will spill over the top of the cup, causing an unsightly bulge in the cleavage, and an empty cup is just embarrassing to many women," said Dr. Horton. "There are stores with professional bra fitters where they will patiently spend an hour or more with women to properly fit their breasts into a bra and determine their actual bra cup size!"

Don't be afraid to admit that you don't know what size you are and that you need help. There are online calculation tools and professional fitters who can help you find the proper size, shape and style of bra that provides comfort, support and flatters your features.

To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.