26 May Recovery Timelines: When Can I Go Braless After A Breast Lift?
Recovering From A Breast Lift
A woman that wants to improve the look of the breasts has many options. Although breast augmentation is a popular procedure, other solutions are available depending on what issues must be addressed. Keep in mind that augmentation simply inserts breast implants or fat deposits from other parts of the body to increase breast volume. A breast lift or mastopexy should be performed if sagging is a concern.
What is a mastopexy?
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a procedure that lifts the breasts to improve the breast profile. During the surgery, a plastic surgeon will remove excess skin to reshape the breast tissue and raise the entire breast. However, a breast lift will not increase the volume of the breasts. Some women who have an augmentation will also add a lift to address sagging.
Why needs a breast lift?
While general sagging is 1 reason women undergo mastopexy, another cause is drooping nipples that point downward. Along with general aging, sometimes drastic weight loss, as well as sustained breastfeeding, can also dramatically change the breast profile. Additional concerns can include breast asymmetry or stretched areolas that change the proportions of the breasts.
Recovery timeline
Similar to any surgical procedure, breast lifts also require time for a person to heal. The total recovery time can vary depending on how the surgery is performed and if combined with adding breast implants. A person’s overall health and how well the patient adheres to the plastic surgeon’s post-op instructions can also play a role. However, on average, the initial recovery period can span roughly 8 weeks. Immediately following surgery, swelling, discomfort, and bruising are common and may last up to 2 weeks. Some people will have drains that may need to be removed a few days after the procedure.
When to go braless
After a breast lift most surgeons won’t recommend going braless for at least the first 6 weeks following a breast lift. During this time, patients will be encouraged to continue wearing the recommended surgical bras throughout the day to provide compression that aids in the healing process. After 6-8 weeks, going without a bra is usually possible for special occasions. However, women shouldn’t spend extended periods without a bra as the breasts are still healing and must be supported to prevent sagging.
Focus on healing
The most important factor a woman should prioritize after a mastopexy is healing. Providing the body with proper support to ensure the incisions heal properly and the desired breast profile is achieved is critical. Only after the breasts have fully healed should a woman consider going braless on occasion.