05 Aug Will You Need New Bras and Shirts After Breast Augmentation?
“Having” to shop for new bras, tops, and dresses after a breast augmentation can be either an exciting time or something to dread—it all depends on the patient. However, whether or not you’ll need to update your wardrobe depends on many factors. At Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center, we’ve seen an increase in patients who desire smaller, more natural-looking, teardrop-shaped implants in recent years. Still, even for those who opt for larger, rounder implants, you still might fit perfectly well into your existing clothes.
The reality is that most women are not wearing the correct bra size to begin with. A New York Times article revealed that in one study, 70 – 100 percent of women are wearing the wrong size. It might turn out that your “new” bust actually fits your current bras better. Whether or not you couple liposuction with breast augmentation (which is very common) also plays a role. Many women take this opportunity to remove unwanted fat that causes “side boob” or “bra bulge.” Ultimately, even if you get relatively large implants, if you remove fat from the sides or back, there’s a good chance you will finally be able to fill those cups correctly.
What to Know About Clothes Post-Operation
Most patients can resume a lot of activities about two weeks after their surgery, including light activity such as walking. Full return to intensive cardio, lifting, and yoga may require up to six weeks. During this time, you can expect your breasts and the surrounding areas to be swollen. In most cases, you’ll have a good idea of your new, “true” size at three months but swelling can persist for up to six months. In other words, if you’re busting at the seams right after surgery, don’t panic or go out and buy an entirely new wardrobe. Much of that is swelling and the implants haven’t even “dropped and fluffed” yet.
The “drop and fluff” occurs at around month three. This is when breasts drop slightly, fluff out more fully at the bottom, and take on the more natural-looking shape you originally intended. Of course, at this point they are going to look different in bras and clothes than they did before surgery or right after surgery. If you must get new shirts in order to fit right after surgery, opt for affordable, disposable items because these won’t fit you well for long.
Compression Matters
You will also be wearing a compression bra for several weeks after your surgery. Your surgeon may recommend that you buy multiple medical compression bras, or you may be able to wear a sports bra just a couple of weeks after the surgery. However, it is important to wear the garment your surgeon recommends around the clock (except when showering). This helps to relieve swelling, discomfort, and encourages the implants to take on the ideal position. Not wearing the right garments can cause unnecessary discomfort and there is a high chance your implants may shift during this crucial period.
As you know, your breasts are going to look different in a compression bra (or sports bra) when underneath non-workout clothes. Consider the first few weeks after surgery an adjustment period. Follow your surgeon’s directions closely to optimize and speed up healing. In the long run, you won’t remember these weeks. The most important thing to focus on is comfort and end results.
How to Make the Most of Recovery
In addition to following directions exactly (including compression garments), the longer you can sleep propped up the better. Most patients are required to sleep in this position for two weeks. However, if you can manage longer, that’s even better. Not only does this position relieve any lingering discomfort, it also encourages the breasts to get in and stay in their prime position. Once you’ve mastered this for the first two weeks, it gets easier. As an added bonus, this is also the recommended position to minimize lines, wrinkles, and snoring!
Every person is unique, and that means every breast augmentation is one of a kind. Your surgeon may recommend additional steps, such as an ointment on the small incisions (typically no longer than five centimeters) to help with healing. You can also choose non-invasive procedures like laser skin rejuvenation once healing is complete to further lighten incision scarring. To get started on your breast augmentation journey, get in touch with Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center by calling the office or filling out the online contact form now.