Post Surgery Support Garments after Breast Surgery
If you are considering undergoing breast surgery, (whether it is a Breast Augmentation, Reduction or a Lift) the chances are you’ve heard about wearing a compression garment after breast surgery. But just because you’ve heard about them doesn’t mean you understand why they are so important or what they actually do. That’s what we will help you understand.
Below is information regarding; what compression garments do, the different types, the benefits of wearing one as well as answers to the most frequently asked questions and more.
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- A compression garment is a firm fitting, compressive undergarment (Bra, singlet, underwear, bodysuit, shorts etc) that is lightweight and stretchy.
- It is often made of a combination of nylon, nylon and/or spandex(elastane).
- They give the patient much needed support and pressure after surgery.
read more:Breast lift, side effects and benefits
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There are many benefits to wearing a compression garment after breast surgery including the following;
Swelling and bruising are part of any surgical recovery. However, wearing a compression garment after your breast surgery evenly applies pressure over the surgical area. This not only helps prevent fluid build-up and retention but also helps compress the blood vessels around the chest, preventing too much blood and fluid from flowing towards the wound/incision area.
Without a compression garment swelling and bruising are worse which also creates more pain for the patient and a longer recovery time as swelling and bruising take time to dissipate.
Blood clots are a risk when it comes to any surgical procedure. Wearing a compression garment can significantly reduce the risk of blood clots forming. This is because they help circulate the blood through the body.
Good circulation is also a vital part of the healing process.
Wearing a compression garment can help implants settle in the correct place, as well as, help your skin contract into its new position. They can also help you feel more secure and assist you to move, post-surgery. In addition to these factors, constant pressure can also help alleviate some of your post-op pain and discomfort.
read more :To breast lift or not to breast lift?
- Patients will wear stage one garment immediately after surgery for between two and four weeks depending on several factors, including the; type of surgery, surgeon’s preference and rate of patient’s physical healing.
- Stage one post-op garments usually have front fastenings. This makes them easy to put on and take off as they do not require patients to extend their arms. They are also wire-free.
- These garments help drain excess fluid away from your breasts which in turn helps reduces both swelling and bruising.
- These compression bras must be worn 24/7. The only time patients should be without their compression bra during stage 1 is when showering.
- Generally, stage 2 bras are compressive sports bras, with no underwire.
- These help with long-term recovery.
- At this stage, the body is not producing as much excess fluid.
- However, extra support is still necessary as the body is still recovering.
- Ideally, stage two garments should be worn until you have fully recovered from your Breast Surgery.
- Although they offer similar compression to stage 1 garments, stage 2 garments don’t need to be worn 24/7 (you can have a break). That being said, there is no harm in wearing them all the time.
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As previously mentioned a good compression bra has many benefits. It is an essential part of your recovery. But how do you choose the right one for you? Here are some things to consider when choosing your post-surgery compression bra;
- Front closing – Bras that close at the front require less manoeuvrability. Your movement will be limited in the initial few weeks, having a front closing bra is easier to adjust and take off.
- Adjustable straps – This may seem like a no brainer but not all bras have them. This is important to ensure you have the right support throughout your recovery.
- No Underwire – choosing a compression bra with no underwire will maximise your comfort. Underwear can dig into your incisions and cause irritation. Underwire bras should be avoided until your breasts have fully recovered.
- Breathable Material – Breathable material equals less sweat and proper ventilation, whereas materials that don’t breathe mean poor ventilation and sweating which increases your risk of infection.
- No excess pressure – While this may sound strange because you want your compression bra to be firm fitting what you don’t want is uneven weight distribution and discomfort. It should be firm and comfortable all over, it should not dig in or be uncomfortable to wear.
- Antibacterial – Your compression bra should contain antibacterial properties to prevent bacteria from growing, infection and bad odours.
So in summary, the best compression bra for you is one that is front closing with adjustable straps, made of a breathable, antibacterial fabric that is also comfortable and supportive enough to wear all day every day to further support your healing and recovery.
