What to Wear After Breast Reduction

How Does Breast Reduction Work?

Dr. Holley performs breast reduction at West Michigan Plastic Surgery under general anesthesia. Before the procedure, he will discuss your concerns and goals to create a personalized treatment plan.

During the procedure, Dr. Holley typically makes an incision vertically down the breast from the areola and horizontally under the breast crease. This is called an anchor or inverted T incision. He then removes excess skin and tissue to decrease size and reshape the breasts. If needed, he may reposition the nipples and areola to fit the new breast shape. A breast reduction procedure typically takes two to three hours.

What to Wear After Breast Reduction

After the surgery, your breasts will be wrapped with gauze and an elastic bandage or surgical bra. There may be drainage tubes to keep any excess fluid from accumulating. You’ll be able to go home the same day with the help of a friend or family member, and we’ll give you detailed aftercare instructions.

We’ll remove the drainage tubes and gauze bandaging after a few days. You’ll need to continue wearing the surgical bra for several weeks to support your breasts as they heal. This surgical bra helps your breasts heal properly in their new shape and position while also reducing swelling. You should wear it at night, too. Since lifting your arms above your head may be difficult, try to wear loose-fitting clothing or button-up shirts for the first week.

After four to six weeks, you can switch to a sports bra. Avoid wearing underwire bras for at least two months.