Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery option for those who desire a fuller, more symmetrical bust. However, choosing the right sports bra post-surgery is crucial to ensure proper healing and support during physical activity. In this article, we will provide recommendations for the best sports bras to wear after breast augmentation surgery.

Table of Contents

When to Start Wearing a Sports Bra Post-Surgery

It is important to wait until cleared by your surgeon before wearing a sports bra post-surgery. Typically, this clearance occurs at the two to four-week mark after surgery. Until then, it is recommended to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and promote proper healing. Once cleared, choosing the right sports bra is key for comfort and protection.

Considerations When Choosing a Sports Bra Post-Surgery

When selecting a sports bra post-surgery, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:

Support: Look for bras that provide ample support and compression to reduce movement and protect the incision site.
Comfort: Choose a bra that feels comfortable and fits well, without being too tight or restrictive.
Material: Opt for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics such as nylon or spandex to prevent irritation and promote healing.
Closure: Front-closure bras are often more comfortable and convenient for post-surgery wear, as they can be easier to put on and take off without raising your arms.
Padding: Some women prefer lightly padded bras for added coverage and support post-surgery.
Size: It is important to get measured by a professional to ensure the bra fits correctly and provides adequate support without being too tight or uncomfortable.

Additional Tips for Sports Bra Wear Post-Surgery

Along with choosing the right sports bra, there are some additional tips to keep in mind when wearing a bra post-surgery:

Start with low-impact activities: Begin with low-impact exercises, such as walking or light yoga, and gradually work up to more strenuous activities over time.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort during physical activity. If something feels off, take a break and rest.
Avoid underwire bras: Many surgeons recommend avoiding underwire bras for up to 6-8 weeks post-surgery, as they can put pressure on the incision site and slow down the healing process.
Check for proper fit: As your body heals and changes, your sports bra fit may need to be adjusted. Get measured regularly to ensure you are wearing the correct size.
Wash your sports bra regularly: To prevent irritation and infection, it is important to wash your sports bra regularly in a gentle cycle and air dry.

Maintaining Proper Care and Comfort for Your Breasts

Along with choosing the right sports bra, maintaining proper care and comfort for your breasts is essential after breast augmentation surgery.

Use a cold compress: If you experience swelling or discomfort after surgery, applying a cold compress can help reduce inflammation and soreness.
Massage your breasts: Gently massaging your breasts can help reduce swelling and promote proper lymphatic draining.
Avoid lifting heavy objects: For at least 2-3 weeks after surgery, avoid lifting heavy objects or performing strenuous activities that could damage your breasts.
Sleep on your back: Sleeping on your back can help reduce pressure on your breasts and promote proper healing.
Attend follow-up appointments: Attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.

By taking these steps and following our sports bra recommendations, you can feel comfortable and supported during physical activity as you heal after breast augmentation surgery.

Benefits of Sports Bras Post-Surgery

Choosing a sports bra post-surgery is important for both comfort and health reasons. Here are some of the benefits of wearing a sports bra post-breast augmentation:

Reduced swelling: Compression sports bras can help reduce swelling and promote proper healing after surgery.
Increased support: The right sports bra can provide the support needed to reduce movement and protect sensitive tissues.
Reduced discomfort: Sports bras with adjustable straps and closure options can help relieve discomfort and prevent chafing.
Improved confidence: By choosing a well-fitting sports bra, you can feel confident and comfortable during physical activity.
Improved healing: Proper support and care for your breasts after surgery can promote faster healing and better long-term outcomes.

Conclusion

Breast augmentation is a significant procedure, and taking care of your body after surgery is essential for a successful outcome. Choosing the right sports bra can help provide essential support and comfort during physical activity while also promoting proper healing. Remember to consider factors such as support, comfort, material, closure, padding, and size when choosing a sports bra post-surgery. Additionally, follow our additional tips for sports bra wear, such as starting with low-impact activities, listening to your body, avoiding underwire bras, checking for proper fit, and washing your sports bra regularly. By taking these steps and following our recommendations, you can feel confident and comfortable during your recovery and beyond.

Glossary

Breast augmentation surgery – a cosmetic surgery procedure that involves increasing the size or changing the shape of the breasts.
Compression garment – a garment designed to provide compression and support to a particular area of the body, such as after surgery.
Incision site – the area of the body in which an incision has been made during surgery.
Moisture-wicking fabric – a type of fabric designed to pull moisture away from the skin and keep the body dry.
Underwire bra – a type of bra that features a wire sewn into the cups to provide additional support.
CupTargeted Support – a patented technology in certain sports bras that is designed to provide extra support for the breasts during exercise.
Lymphatic draining – a process that helps remove excess fluid from the body through the lymphatic system.
Follow-up appointments – appointments with a medical professional after a surgery or procedure to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
Long-term outcomes – the results or effects of a particular treatment or procedure over a longer period of time.
Post-surgery – the period of time following a surgery or procedure.

Sources

American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (n.d.). Breast augmentation. ASPS. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation.
Bras after breast augmentation: What to look for. (2017, August 29). Health Essentials from Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/bras-after-breast-augmentation-what-to-look-for/.
Lee, J. W., & Song, D. H. (2014). A review of sports bra use and injury prevention for the female athlete. Physical medicine and rehabilitation clinics of North America, 25(4), 877-891.
Postoperative care after breast augmentation surgery. (n.d.). American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/procedure-learning-center/breast/breast-augmentation-postoperative-care/.
What are the benefits of compression garments? (2018, June 19). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/compression-garment.
Yeung, J., & Weinberg, J. (2016). Sports bras and breast health. Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy Review, 24(2), 54-56.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (n.d.). Breast augmentation. ASPS. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation.
Bras after breast augmentation: What to look for. (2017, August 29). Health Essentials from Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/bras-after-breast-augmentation-what-to-look-for/.
Lee, J. W., & Song, D. H. (2014). A review of sports bra use and injury prevention for the female athlete. Physical medicine and rehabilitation clinics of North America, 25(4), 877-891.
Postoperative care after breast augmentation surgery. (n.d.). American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/procedure-learning-center/breast/breast-augmentation-postoperative-care/.
What are the benefits of compression garments? (2018, June 19). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/compression-garment.
Yeung, J., & Weinberg, J. (2016). Sports bras and breast health. Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy Review, 24(2), 54-56.