Ina recent conversation, Dr. Albright, a respected plastic surgeon in SanAntonio, shared a somewhat unconventional recommendation for his patients undergoing breast augmentation: wearing a bra to bed. Now, before you dismiss this suggestion outright, let's delve into the rationale behind it and video is below as well:
Dr. Albright begins by acknowledging the inherent challenge of his perspective as a man who doesn't wear bras himself. However, he firmly believes there's merit to this advice, particularly for breast augmentation patients.
The recommendation is especially pertinent for individuals with larger implants, those with smooth implants placed under the muscle, and those with a sloped rib cage. The reasoning behind this advice lies in the physics of breast implants.
Implants have mass, and gravity exerts a continuous force on that mass. Overtime, this gravitational pull can cause implants to shift position, particularly in patients with sloped rib cages. As the implants settle to the side, the center mass of the implant sits on a steeper incline, potentially accelerating the migration process.
Dr. Albright suggests wearing a bra with good side support, ideally with an underwire, to counteract this effect. The goal is to keep the implants supported on the flatter part of the rib cage for as long as possible, slowing migration.
But how do you know if your bra is providing adequate support? Dr. Albright offers a simple test: lie down without wearing anything and observe the degree of shift in your breasts and implants. Then, repeat the process with the bra on. If the implants shift less with the bra, it indicates adequate side support.
While underwire bras are traditionally associated with side support, Dr.Albright acknowledges that they may not be the most comfortable option for sleeping. He suggests alternative bras with bendable rods or reinforced fabric along the sides.
Of course, it's essential to recognize that implant position and migration are influenced by various factors beyond just gravity. Native scar tissue or capsule formation around the implants can also play a significant role.
Ultimately, Dr. Albright's recommendation aims to control the factors within our reach to optimize long-term implant positioning. While it may not be a one-size-fits-all solution, it's an aspect of post-operative care worth considering.
If you have thoughts or questions about this recommendation, Dr. Albright encourages constructive dialogue in the comments section. After all, in plastic surgery, sharing perspectives and exchanging knowledge ultimately benefit patients seeking the best possible outcomes.
