Do I Need To Wear a Bra if I Have Implants?

Once you have achieved your desired look with breast augmentation, it’s normal to wonder what you need to do to look after your new breasts. “Do I need to wear a bra if I have implants?” is a common question we hear at our plastic surgery practice in Marina del Rey, California.

While breast implants provide fullness and support, wearing a bra can still be beneficial for maintaining comfort, enhancing shape, and preserving results over time. Dr. David Stoker, our internationally renowned board-certified plastic surgeon, offers expert guidance to help patients make the best decisions about bra use and long-term support for their implants.

The Importance of a Bra After Breast Augmentation

Even with implants, bras play an important role by providing additional support for your breasts. Here’s how wearing bras can benefit you post-augmentation:

• Support and Shape Maintenance: Bras help keep your implants positioned properly, preserving the aesthetic results over time.
• Skin and Tissue Support: Wearing a bra reduces strain on the skin and underlying tissues, helping to prevent sagging and maintain lift.
• Comfort for Activities: During high-impact activities or daily routines, a supportive bra provides comfort and stability, allowing free movement without added strain.

Dr. Stoker will advise you on the types of bras that best complement your implants and lifestyle, promoting your long-term comfort and results.

Wearing Support and Compression Garments During Recovery

Breast augmentation patients are typically asked to wear compression garments continuously during the initial recovery period. However, with Dr. Stoker’s rapid recovery technique, you can wear a soft, supportive bra within 24 to 48 hours of surgery.

Bra use during recovery helps stabilize the implants as the body adjusts. It also provides gentle, even pressure to reduce swelling and support proper circulation. Many of our patients especially appreciate getting to wear their own bras after surgery, as this is often a more comfortable and cost-effective option than specialty surgical garments. 

Moderation Is Key

There are times when going braless can be perfectly fine, such as while you’re sleeping or for short periods when you want to feel comfortable at home. But remember: Moderation is key. Each patient’s lifestyle and implant type may influence how much support they need. For example, those with smaller implants or more relaxed routines may not need as much frequent support.

Daily use of a soft, wire-free bra will support your breasts through your normal routines; sports bras will stabilize your implants during exercise; and occasional breaks from bra use can enhance your comfort. While you are highly encouraged to wear a bra consistently after your augmentation, it is OK to use your best judgment to go without it.

Still Have Questions?

Dive deeper into this topic by reading our related blog posts:

• Is It OK To Go Braless After Augmentation? – Learn more about the impact of going braless and the factors to consider if you do.
• What Kind of Bra Is Best for Breast Implants? Tips for Post-Augmentation Shopping – Before you go breast shopping after your surgery, learn what type of bras may be helpful.

If you would like to learn more about your breast enhancement options, please request a consultation or call us at (310) 300-1779 to get started.