Post-Surgery Support Garments after Breast Surgery

The recovery and healing process after breast surgery is just as important as the surgery itself. To achieve the results you’re looking for, you’ll want to follow your provider’s aftercare instructions, and part of those instructions include regularly wearing a support or compression garment. But what exactly is a compression garment, and how will it benefit you? Let’s take a look!

What is a Compression Garment?

A compression garment is just what the phrase suggests. It’s a firm-fitting, compressive undergarment that is breathable and stretchy and meant to give you support and compression after surgery.

Benefits of Support Garments After Breast Surgery

Support garments come with a variety of benefits, including the following:

Helps Reduce Both Swelling And Bruising

One of the main benefits of a support compression garment is that it can reduce swelling and bruising. By applying pressure to the breast area, there is less fluid build-up and retention. It also helps compress the blood vessels around the chest and prevents too much blood from flowing toward the incision and causing excess bruising. Without a compression garment, swelling, bruising, and pain can be much worse, and, in turn, your recovery time can be much longer.

Helps Prevent Blood Clots From Forming

Blood clots are a risk when it comes to any surgical procedure. With a compression garment, you can greatly reduce the risk of them forming. The garment will help circulate blood throughout the body and ultimately, help along the healing process.

Can Speed Up The Healing Process And Reduces Patient Recovery Time

Wearing a compression garment can help ensure your breast implants settle in the correct position and make sure the skin contracts around your newly enhanced breasts. The garment can also help you feel more secure as you begin to move around. You won’t have to worry about your breasts moving or tearing open your incisions. All of this can help speed up the healing process and reduce your recovery time.

Types of Breast Surgery Support Garments

There are two different stages of breast surgery support garments: Stage 1 and Stage 2.

Stage 1

A stage one garment is worn directly after surgery and should be worn for anywhere from two to four weeks. How long you wear it depends on the type of breast surgery you had, your rate of healing, and what your surgeon recommends. Stage one garments usually have front fastenings, so they are easy to put on and are typically wire-free. You’ll wear this garment 24/7 except when you are showering.

Stage 2

A stage two compression garment is meant for your long-term recovery and is typically like a compressive sports bra with no underwire. While your body is not producing as much excess fluid, the extra support is still needed as your body continues to recover. You’ll wear the stage two garment until you are fully recovered. You can remove this garment as you need to.

Choosing the Right Support Garment For You

How do you choose the right support garment for you? There are a few specifications you’ll want to look for to find the right garment.

• Front closing: Bras that close at the front require less maneuverability, and since your movement will be limited in the first few weeks of your recovery, a front-closing garment can make it a whole lot easier to adjust and put on and take off.
• Adjustable straps: Adjustable straps are vital to any good support garment to ensure you are getting the right support for you.
• No Underwire: A compression garment after breast surgery requires no underwire. You don’t want it digging into your incisions or causing irritation. Any bras with underwire should be avoided until you’re fully recovered.
• Breathable Material: As you want proper ventilation and don’t want your skin to become sweaty underneath your support garment, breathable material is a must. It will also decrease the risk of an infection with less moisture buildup.
• No excess pressure: While you want your compression garment to provide significant pressure, it shouldn’t dig in anywhere or be uncomfortable to wear.
• Antibacterial: Your compression bra should also have bacterial properties to prevent bacteria growth, infection, and unpleasant odors.

Schedule A Consultation

Now that you have more information on the recovery process and the compression garment you need to wear after your breast surgery, it’s the perfect time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sadati or Dr. Florin at the Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery & Aesthetic Lounge and achieve the body you’ve always wanted. Call our Newport Beach, CA office today at (949) 979-7392 or use our online contact form. We can’t wait to help you meet your goals!