Dressing tips: What to wear after an aesthetic surgery

Dressing tips: What to wear after an aesthetic surgery

After any aesthetic surgery, it’s important to wear clothes that won’t irritate your incision sites.

Tight fit, straps or anything else that digs into your skin is really best to avoid. Tight fitting bras or briefs may also lead you into having red marks on top of already painful wounds.

Wearing loose-fitting clothes after surgery is an important part of maintaining your wound and ensuring it heals correctly. Don’t put your body under extra stress when it needs to heal!

If you are having trouble finding clothes that fit well, consider shopping at a store that specializes in loose clothing aesthetics and stocks a lot of clothes in natural, breathable materials.

Here are some other tips to keep in mind when dressing after an aesthetic surgery.

1. Choose comfortable fabrics

After an aesthetic surgery, you will want to choose clothes made from soft, comfortable fabrics. Avoid anything scratchy or irritating.

Cotton, linen, and silk are all good options as natural fabrics are usually the best, but a very well processed smooth polyester can work just as well. Be sure to try the fabric on your skin and return any garment that does not feel right!

Additionally, with tips for breast augmentation recovery and how to sleep comfortably after breast surgery. If you have questions about what fabrics to avoid, be sure to ask your doctor or surgeon.

They might not be experts in fashion but they do know about the practical issues with recovering after a surgery.

2. Consider your incisions

When dressing after a surgery, you will need to take your incisions into consideration.

If you have had a mastectomy, you will likely have drains in place. These drains help to remove excess fluid from the surgical site and prevent infection. Be sure to wear clothing that accommodates your drains, such as a tank top with built-in pockets for the drains. If you have had breast reconstruction surgery, you may have sutures or staples in place.

Be careful when dressing not to put too much pressure on these areas. It’s also important to avoid clothing that rubs against your incisions, as this can cause irritation.

3. Avoid clothing that is tight-fitting

After any surgery that leaves incision areas on your body it is important to avoid clothing that is tight-fitting.

This type of clothing can put pressure on your incisions and cause them to become irritated. To avoid that, go for loose-fitting clothing that will allow your incisions to heal properly.

As a tip, try to to avoid clothing that has buttons or zippers. These may seem like nothing to you before surgery, but in fact they can also put pressure on your incisions and cause a lot of discomfort. It’s best to stick with soft, comfortable fabrics that won’t irritate your skin. This includes items such as cotton t-shirts, loose-fitting dresses, and comfortable pants.

4. Consider a special bra

While you are healing, it is important to avoid wearing constricting clothing items such as bras with underwires. It’s best to wear a soft, supportive sports bra or a camisole with built-in support as there will be nothing to dig into your skin.

If it is a breast surgery that you had, you will probably want to consider investing in a post-mastectomy bra. These bras are designed to provide support and relieve discomfort after a breast surgery. They often have built-in pockets for drains and soft, adjustable straps. Additionally, they can help to minimize the appearance of scars. If you are interested in purchasing a post-mastectomy bra, be sure to ask your doctor or surgeon for recommendations. Also, check with your insurance company to see if they will cover the cost of the bra.

5. Take your time dressing

After a surgery, it is paramount to be patient with yourself and allow your body to heal. This includes taking your time when getting dressed.

Avoid rushing or putting too much pressure on yourself. Instead, take things slowly and be gentle with yourself. If you have any pain or discomfort, be sure to stop and rest. It is really important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard.

Remember that you are healing from surgery and need to take things easy…But not too easy.

While you will probably need to avoid strenuous sports or heavy lifting, gentle exercises such as walking is great and can help you recover faster.

6. Ask for help if needed

After breast surgery especially, you may find it difficult to put on a bra or reach for clothing items that are high up. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend or family member. You can also consult with your surgeon about the best ways to get dressed after your procedure.

Additionally, there are many products on the market that can assist with post-operative dressing, such as compression bras and arm sleeves. These items can make the process much easier and help you to feel more comfortable as you heal.


Dressing after a surgery can be a challenge. However, by following these tips, you can make the process much easier. Be sure to listen to your body and take things slowly. Additionally, make sure to avoid clothing that is constricting or puts pressure on your incisions. Instead, opt for loose-fitting, comfortable items made from soft fabrics.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Many products are available that can assist with post-operative dressing. By following these tips, you can help your body get a smooth and successful recovery.