Breast Augmentation & Under Wire Bras

We generally avoid using under wire bras for six to eight weeks following breast augmentation. There are two reasons for this approach. First, when patients undergo sub muscular placement of breast implants, the pectoral major muscle may undergo spasm in the early post-operative period. This may force the implant in an upward direction and lead to malposition. When this situation arises, we utilize compression to force the implant in a downward direction. An under wire bra would have the opposite effect.

Another reason for avoiding under wire bras in the immediate post-operative period is the potential for the bra to irritate a fresh surgical incision.  An infamammary incision would be directly beneath the under wire bra and this might lead to irritation of the incision.


After six to eight weeks, wound healing and muscle spasm should no longer be an issue. In most breast augmentation patients, it is reasonable to resume the use of under wire bras at this time.

If you have questions regarding what bras you can or cannot wear following breast augmentation surgery, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon at Aesthetic Surgical Images today.